Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome due to targeted agents: vemurafinib among suspects!

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurological condition characterized by reversible cortical dysfunction and specific brain imaging findings.
• PRES is associated with various agents, including chemotherapy, immunosuppressants, and targeted therapies like anti-VEGFR, anti-CD20, and anti-CTLA-4 agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first case of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) associated with vemurafenib, a BRAF gene inhibitor.
• To review existing literature on PRES cases linked to targeted therapies.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient developing PRES.
• Literature review of targeted therapy-associated PRES.

Main Results:

• The study presents the first documented case of vemurafenib-induced Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES).
• The review of scientific literature provides context on other targeted therapies implicated in PRES.

Conclusions:

• Vemurafenib, a BRAF inhibitor, is identified as a potential cause of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES).
• Further research is warranted to confirm the association between vemurafenib and PRES.
• This finding expands the spectrum of targeted therapies linked to PRES.