Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in malignant hypertension secondary to focal segmental...

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurological condition that occurs secondary to a variety of causes like autoimmune diseases, uncontrolled hypertension and immunosuppressive agents. We report an unusual association of PRES and malignant hypertension secondary to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in a young woman, presenting with sudden loss of vision and seizures. She had uncontrolled hypertension and a Glasgow Coma Scale of 6/15. Brain MRI revealed high signals in cortical and subcortical white matter and some involvement of the periventricular areas. She improved dramatically with antihypertensive and antiepileptic medications and was discharged home in a stable condition. It is important to have a high clinical suspicion for this uncommon condition in an appropriate clinical setting, because a timely intervention can prevent long-term complications.