Charles Bonnet Syndrome is characterized by which type of hallucination?

• A. Only visual
• B. Only auditory
• C. Olfactory and gustatory
• D. Tactile

Answer: (A)

The main concept being tested is the sensory modality of hallucinations in Charles Bonnet Syndrome. This condition occurs in people with significant vision loss and presents as vivid, complex visual hallucinations—formed images like people, animals, or scenes. Importantly, these hallucinations are purely visual and are not accompanied by hallucinations in other senses. Patients often retain insight, recognizing that what they see isn’t real, which helps distinguish CBS from primary psychotic disorders.

Because the hallmark is visual phenomena, the statement describing visual hallucinations is the best choice. Auditory, olfactory and gustatory, or tactile hallucinations do not characterize Charles Bonnet Syndrome and would point to different conditions.