Charles Bonnet syndrome and Parkinson’s disease

Abstract

We present two cases of Charles Bonnet syndrome in comorbidity with Parkinson's disease. Patients developed visual hallucinosis before starting any antiparkisonian treatment. We briefly discuss the possible physiopathological mechanisms involving low visual acuity and Parkinson's disease with visual hallucinosis.

Complex visual hallucinations in a Parkinson patient: don't blame James if it's Charles's fault

“…Despite the high frequency of both pathologies, the comorbidity of CBS and PD is uncommon (Alcántara et al ., 1998) but underdiagnosis of CBS in PD patients is likely the result of underdiagnosis of CBS in general (Schadlu et al ., 2009). This case report shows that it can be easily treated without the need for reducing dopaminergic treatment or the initiation of potentially harmful neuroleptics.…”

Charles Bonnet syndrome and dementia

“…Alcantara et al. (6) have emphasized that the diagnosis of CBS should be made when there are visual hallucinations both before the motor signs of Parkinson's disease and in the absence of anti‐Parkinsonian treatment, which occurred in the above patient. We agree with Hori et al.…”

“…A diagnosis of CBS and mild Parkinson's disease was appropriate given the patient's physical status, the severity of both conditions and the lack of other physical, psychiatric or cognitive features. Alcantara et al (6) have emphasized that the diagnosis of CBS should be made when there are visual hallucinations both before the motor signs of Parkinson's disease and in the absence of anti-Parkinsonian treatment, which occurred in the above patient. We agree with Hori et al (1) and Terao and Collinson (7) that clinicians should be vigilant for the emergence of either Alzheimer's dementia (AD) or LBD.…”