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A visual hallucination is a vivid visual experience occurring without corresponding external stimuli in an awake state. These experiences are involuntary and possess a degree of perceived reality sufficient to resemble authentic visual perception.[1] Unlike illusions, which involve the misinterpretation of actual external stimuli, visual hallucinations are entirely independent of external visual input.[2] They may include fully formed images, such as human figures or scenes, angelic figures, or unformed phenomena, like flashes of light or geometric patterns.[2][3]
Visual hallucinations are not restricted to the transitional states of awakening or falling asleep and are a hallmark of various neurological and psychiatric conditions.[3] They are documented in schizophrenia, toxic encephalopathies, migraines, substance withdrawal syndromes, focal central nervous system lesions, and psychotic mood disorders.[3] Although traditionally linked with organic aetiologies, visual hallucinations occur in approximately 25% to 50% of individuals with schizophrenia. In such cases, they frequently co-occur with auditory hallucinations, though they may also manifest independently.[3]
Approximately one-third of individuals with psychotic disorders experience visual hallucinations.[1] Despite their prevalence, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, which hinders the development of targeted therapeutic approaches.[1]
- ^ a b c van Ommen, Marouska M; van Laar, Teus; Renken, Remco; Cornelissen, Frans W; Bruggeman, Richard (24 February 2023). "Visual Hallucinations in Psychosis: The Curious Absence of the Primary Visual Cortex". Schizophrenia Bulletin. 49 (Supplement_1): S68 – S81. doi:10.1093/schbul/sbac140. PMC 9960034. PMID 36840543.
- ^ a b "ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics: MB27.27 Visual hallucinations". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2025-01-12.
- ^ a b c d Boland, Robert Joseph; Verduin, Marcia L. (2024-05-07). Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry. Philadelphia Baltimore New York: Wolters Kluwer. p. 3383-3384. ISBN 978-1-9751-7573-3.