Visuoperceptual and visuospatial alterations in neurodegenerative diseases: a narrative review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Introduction There is growing evidence suggesting that alterations in higher-level visual processing are a frequent and clinically relevant symptom in such neurodegenerative diseases as Alzheimer disease, multiple sclerosis, and Lewy body dementia. Some 70% of patients with Lewy body dementia are estimated to present visuoperceptual deficits during the course of the disease. Development. This text summarises the most common visuoperceptual and visuospatial alterations associated with neurodegenerative diseases commonly seen in neurology and neuropsychology practice, highlighting some of the most widely used neuropsychological tests for their detection. Moreover, it emphasises the relevance of these alterations not only for the initial and differential diagnosis of such conditions but also for predicting patients' prognosis and clinical progression across the different stages of the disease. Conclusions Future research should focus on developing new cognitive assessment tools that integrate current advances in the understanding of higher-level visual processing and neurodegenerative diseases. Early, accurate identification of visuoperceptual and visuospatial deficits is not only essential for early and differential diagnosis but can also provide valuable information about disease progression and help guide more personalised therapeutic interventions.
Source: Neurology Perspectives
Author: Á.L. Martínez-Nogueras
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,430
OpenAlex ID: W7170162690