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Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in pediatric patients: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management
Michael G Z Ghali1,2, Justin Davanzo2, Madeline Leo2
1Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital , Houston , TX , USA.
Insights
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is rare in children, often linked to leukemia chemotherapy. This review covers PRES pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Oncology
Background:
- Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is less common in children than adults.
- PRES in pediatric patients is frequently associated with acute leukemia chemotherapy.
- The syndrome involves disrupted cerebral autoregulation causing vasogenic edema.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) in pediatric patients.
- To discuss the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of pediatric PRES.
- To provide a comprehensive overview for clinicians managing this condition in children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pediatric PRES cases.
- Analysis of pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and treatment strategies.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on PRES in children.
Main Results:
- PRES pathogenesis involves impaired cerebral autoregulation leading to vasogenic edema.
- Edema predominantly affects parieto-occipital white matter but can involve other brain regions.
- Chemotherapy for acute leukemia is a common precipitating factor in children.
Conclusions:
- Understanding PRES pathophysiology is crucial for diagnosis and management in pediatric oncology.
- Early recognition and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes for children with PRES.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate PRES mechanisms and optimize pediatric care.
Abstract:
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is well-described in adults, but has been reported with relative rarity in children, usually occurring in the context of chemotherapy for acute leukemia. Pathogenesis involves perturbed cerebral autoregulation leading to vasogenic edema predominantly affecting the parieto-occipital white matter, though involvement of the frontal and temporal lobes, as well as posterior fossa, is also described. We review the literature on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of PRES in pediatric patients.
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