Reversible acute cortical blindness associated with eclampsia in complete hydatidiform mole

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Neurology
• Radiology

Background:

• Eclampsia is a rare complication of molar pregnancy.
• Sudden cortical blindness during eclampsia presents a diagnostic challenge.
• Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an uncommon but serious complication.

Observation:

• This case report details a patient experiencing cortical blindness and PRES secondary to molar pregnancy-related eclampsia.
• Clinical presentation and MRI findings were consistent with PRES.
• The patient's symptoms resolved with appropriate management.

Findings:

• PRES in eclampsia is attributed to vasogenic brain edema from acute hypertension.
• Clinical and imaging findings of PRES are typically reversible.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are key to preventing permanent neurological deficits.

Implications:

• MRI is essential for eclamptic patients with visual disturbances to rule out other causes of blindness.
• Prompt management of PRES can prevent long-term visual and brain injury.
• This case highlights the importance of recognizing PRES in the context of eclampsia, particularly in molar pregnancies.