Functional visual loss is an apparent loss of vision with no sign of a structural abnormality in the eye.

If your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) suspects that you have functional visual loss, you will need to have a complete eye examination to rule out possible underlying causes of your vision loss. In addition to the examination in your doctor’s office, you may require, among other things, blood work and imaging with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Should these tests rule out other causes of the vision loss and show indications of functional visual loss, you can begin treatments that will help you regain your sight. Because your ophthalmologist has eliminated the possibility of other underlying causes of your vision loss, you can feel assured that your condition is not serious and that your vision will very likely recover with time.

(c) 2007 The American Academy of Ophthalmology