Intracranial hemorrhage in posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical-radiographic phenomenon characterized by vasogenic edema, predominantly affecting the posterior regions of the brain. The hemorrhagic variant of PRES has been increasingly recognized, complicating the clinical picture and prognosis.

This meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Observational studies and case reports/series were included. Extracted data included demographics, clinical presentations, imaging findings, and outcomes. A random-effects model to pool the incidence rate of hemorrhagic PRES and heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. The Joanna Briggs Institute scale for case reports/series and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cohort studies were used for quality and risk of bias assessment.

A total of 63 individual records and 12 cohort studies were reviewed. Hypertension at arrival was seen in > 90% of cases. Overall, 60.3% of cases occurred in women and the average age was 39.3, with a 12.7% mortality rate. The incidence rate of hemorrhagic PRES was found to be approximately 17%, with significant heterogeneity among the included studies (I² = 67%). Seizures (31.7%), headaches (33.3%), and altered mental status (30.1%) were the most reported symptoms. Hypertension (31.7%), immunosuppressive therapy (23.8%), and coagulopathy (11.1%) were identified as the most common risk factors. Hemorrhagic findings included intraparenchymal hemorrhage (77.7%), subarachnoid hemorrhage (15.8%), and microhemorrhages (6.3%).

Hemorrhagic PRES is a significant clinical concern, occurring in approximately 17% of PRES cases, and is often associated with poorer outcomes. We highlight the importance of early recognition, aggressive blood pressure control, and careful monitoring in high-risk patients.