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Childhood posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
Bláthnaid McCoy1, Mary King, Denis Gill
1Department of Neurology, Children's University Hospital, Temple Street, Dublin 7, Ireland. blathnaid.mccoy@sickkids.ca
Summary
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is a serious condition that can be fatal if untreated. Early diagnosis and prompt management are crucial for better outcomes in PRES patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is a clinicoradiologic condition.
- PRES is characterized by headaches, altered consciousness, visual disturbances, and seizures.
- Hypertensive crisis is the most common precipitating factor for PRES.
Observation:
- PRES can be fatal if left untreated, and not all cases are reversible.
- The condition is increasingly diagnosed in children.
- Clinical presentation of PRES can be variable and often unsuspected by clinicians.
Findings:
- Radiological changes are a key feature of PRES.
- Radiologists often provide the initial suggestion for a PRES diagnosis.
- Understanding the pathogenesis of PRES is an area of ongoing research.
Implications:
- Accurate assessment, including blood pressure measurement and imaging, is vital.
- Rapid treatment is essential to prevent severe outcomes.
- Increased awareness and prompt diagnosis can improve patient prognosis.
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