Neural correlates of visuoperceptive changes in severe alcohol use disorder: A critical review of neuroimaging and electrophysiological findings

Abstract

Visuoperceptive deficits are frequently reported in severe alcohol use disorder (SAUD) and are considered as pervasive and persistent in time. While this topic of investigation has previously driven researchers' interest, far fewer studies have focused on visuoperception in SAUD since the '90s, leaving open central questions regarding the origin and implications of these deficits. To renew research in the field and provide a solid background to work upon, this paper reviews the neural correlates of visuoperception in SAUD, based on data from neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies. Results reveal structural and functional changes within the visual system but also in the connections between occipital and frontal areas. We highlight the lack of integration of these findings in the dominant models of vision which stress the dynamic nature of the visual system and consider the presence of both bottomup and top-down cerebral mechanisms. Visuoperceptive changes are also discussed in the framework of long-lasting debates regarding the influence of demographic and alcohol-related factors, together stressing the presence of inter-individual differences. Capitalizing on this review, we provide guidelines to inform future research, and ultimately improve clinical care.

Visual abilities in Severe Alcohol Use Disorder: Preserved spatial but impaired temporal resolution

“…As such, visuospatial impairments encompass a large variety of cognitive and cerebral processes, making it difficult to discern their exact nature. More compelling evidence of genuine visual-related impairments in SAUD suggest reduced luminance contrast sensitivity (Creupelandt et al, 2021a;Martins et al, 2019;Roquelaure et al, 1995), color vision deficiencies (de Oliveira Castro et al, 2009;Martins et al, 2019;Mergler et al, 1988), motion and speed processing deficits (Pillunat et al, 1985;Wegner et al, 2001), and abnormal visual evoked potentials (Cadaveira et al, 1991;Chan et al, 1986;Nazliel et al, 2007;Porjesz et al, 1980). Nevertheless, these studies failed to interpret their results in the light of the organization of the visual system, impeding a theory-grounded integration of the deficits.…”