[Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome induced by acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis]

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical and radiological entity characterized by neurologic symptoms in association with usually reversible bilateral posterior hemispheric edema on neuroimaging. It has been described in adults more than in children. Many pathological conditions and treatments have been associated with this syndrome.

We report the case of an 11-year-old boy who presented with acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis, renal failure, and arterial hypertension. Two days after admission he developed generalized tonic clonic seizures. His blood pressure was 145/90 mmHg. Computed tomography showed hypodense lesions in the occipital and frontal areas. Based on the clinical manifestations and the typical pattern of brain imaging, the diagnosis of PRES was retained. Clinical manifestations and radiological abnormalities resolved after antihypertensive therapy. Axial FLAIR images and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images showed a slight hyperintensity signal in the left occipital area.

Acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis in children should be considered a risk factor for developing PRES.