Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome associated with left ventricular assist device

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLES), also known as posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), involves bilateral brain lesions.
• RPLES is typically associated with conditions like hypertension, eclampsia, renal failure, and immunosuppression post-transplant.

Observation:

• A pediatric patient developed RPLES following the implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD).

Findings:

• This case represents the first reported instance of RPLES associated with LVAD implantation.
• The patient exhibited symptoms consistent with RPLES after the cardiac device procedure.

Implications:

• This finding suggests a potential link between LVADs and the development of RPLES.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and prevalence of RPLES in LVAD recipients.
• Clinicians should consider RPLES in patients presenting with neurological symptoms post-LVAD implantation.