Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in a dialysis patient – A case report

Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an acute clinical-radiological syndrome that occurs due to several causes such as hypertensive encephalopathy, eclampsia, neurotoxicity, drugs, and autoimmune diseases. The patient presents with elevated blood pressure and neurological symptoms such as headache, epileptic seizures, and visual disturbances. The syndrome is confirmed by imaging tests such as computed tomography and, especially, magnetic resonance imaging with findings of vasogenic edema, especially in the white matter in parieto-occipital regions. The symptoms are progressive, but the syndrome regresses completely once treatment is properly and early, otherwise, the patient can face sequelae and even death. Treatment is based on blood pressure control and resolution of the underlying cause. In view of the above, we present the case of a young patient with chronic kidney disease on dialysis who presented clinical and radiological symptoms and whose investigation resulted in the diagnosis of PRES.