Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)

Last edit by Alaric Steinmetz on

ICD-10: I67.83

ICD-11: 9.2233720368548E+18

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an acute-onset form of Encephalopathy.

Symptoms

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) manifests clinically with headaches, visual disturbances, seizures, and behavioral changes or impaired consciousness. In contrast to hypertensive encephalopathy, PRES may also manifest without a clinically significant increase in blood pressure.

Imaging

MRI imaging typically shows bilateral changes in the white matter, which are interpreted as vasogenic edema. Diffusion abnormalities are generally not seen on MRI [^1].

PRES syndrome MRI
Axial T2 sequence of a brain MRI in a patient with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES).

Treatment

Treatment consists of eliminating the underlying causes, together with antihypertensive and anticonvulsant therapy. Since untreated PRES can lead to severe neurological deficits, Status epilepticus, and even death, intensive care treatment is necessary in many cases.

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