Bonnet Eye Disease (or CBS)

Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) is a condition typically found in elderly patients. It is characterized by hallucinations and deteriorating vision. Often, it is mistaken for delirium, dementia or a reaction to medication. If treated improperly, there could be serious, adverse complications.

History

• Charles Bonnet was a Swiss philosopher. When Bonnet's grandfather was nearly blinded by cataracts in 1760, he began having visual hallucinations.

Causes

• Some research has pointed to symptoms occurring when the person is not looking at anything stimulating. It is thought that as we age and the eyes begin failing, the brain may believe it sees things that are not present, such as birds, buildings or patterns.

Hallucinations

• There are some common hallucinations that people with CBS experience, such as landscapes, faces and groups of people. Though the hallucinations are typically not scary, the effect of having a hallucination can cause much distress.

Treatment

• There is no treatment for CBS, but being aware that the visions are hallucinations help some feel less anxiety. Sometimes switching on a light or moving the eyes around can readjust focus and eliminate the visions.

Who Can Get CBS

• CBS typically affects people late in life and those whose vision is failing. The hallucinations often go away after a year to 18 months.