Integrative Neurodevelopmental Approach to CVI: Screening and Subtyping in Early Childhood

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is the leading cause of visual impairment occurring early in life; however, it often remains undiagnosed until preschool age or later. This is problematic because vision is the primary sense used for incidental and intentional learning to build foundational motor, language, and cognitive skills leaving undiagnosed children with a disadvantage. The proposed research aims to (1) develop a screening algorithm for early detection of CVI and (2) establish neurodevelopmental profiles that will inform intervention for children diagnosed with CVI. Our overarching hypothesis is that early detection of CVI and understanding the relationship between visual impairment and neurodevelopment are imperative for informing interventions to optimize a child’s abilities. In our first aim, we will test a novel comprehensive screening algorithm for CVI detection in infants at three developmental time points between 4- 12 months corrected age. In our second aim, we will utilize an interdisciplinary standardized assessment protocol including visual and developmental assessments at two-time points to understand neurodevelopmental subtypes in young children with CVI. This proposal will be carried out by an interdisciplinary research team with a well-established track record of clinical practice and research in CVI. This ground-breaking proposal will lead to a paradigm shift in the current approach to CVI management in young children. The findings from this study will lead to the development of a screening protocol for early detection of CVI that can be easily incorporated into practice by medical providers who routinely interact with young infants. Additionally, identifying neurodevelopmental profiles will be the foundation for the establishment of clinical guidelines for the care of young children with CVI.