Visual hallucinations after enucleation

Abstract

Visual phenomena are frequently reported in patients after ocular trauma, surgery or progressive visual degeneration. In particular, hallucinations are often seen by patients following enucleation. Whereas these visions can be verbally described to the physician, they can never actually be seen. This article focuses on the case of a female artist who experienced visual hallucinations after enucleation of her dominant right eye. In addition to her verbal descriptions, she was able to express these hallucinations visually on canvas. Her case offers insight to caregivers about the nature of visual hallucinations in patients with similar experiences. A review of the general characteristics and etiologies of such visual phenomena is also included.