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Rapid development of seizures and PRES in a COVID-19 patient
Fabiane Santos de Lima1, Sara Klein1, Faten El Ammar1
1Adult Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, 5841 S. Maryland Ave., MC 2030, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, United States.
Insights
COVID-19 infection can cause neurological issues. This case highlights a patient with sickle cell disease experiencing PRES and seizures, suggesting a combined risk.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Neurological dysfunction affects up to 36% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
- Sickle cell disease is a risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes.
- Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurological condition.
Observation:
- A patient with COVID-19 and sickle cell disease rapidly developed PRES.
- The patient also experienced acute seizures.
Findings:
- The co-occurrence of COVID-19 and sickle cell disease may increase the risk of PRES.
- This combination might contribute to the elevated mortality rates observed in COVID-19 patients with sickle cell disease.
Implications:
- Highlights potential synergistic risks between COVID-19 and sickle cell disease.
- Suggests increased vigilance for neurological complications in this patient population.
- Informs clinical management and research into COVID-19's neurological impact on vulnerable groups.
Abstract:
Neurological dysfunction has been noted in up to 36% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, and a variety of mechanisms of neurological injury are possible. Here we report the rapid development of PRES and acute seizures in a patient with COVID-19 infection and sickle cell disease. The combination of COVID and sickle cell disease may raise the risk of PRES and could contribute to the higher mortality rate of COVID in patients with sickle cell disease.
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