Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome as a complication of pre-eclampsia in the early postpartum period. Issue 7 (16th July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Verhaegen, Julie; Peeters, Frederik; Debois, Patrick; Jacquemyn, Yves
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 12:Issue 7(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-07-16
• Subjects: obstetrics and gynaecology -- pregnancy; Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-228954
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : We present the case of a 30-year-old woman with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) as a complication of pre-eclampsia in the early postpartum period. PRES is a rare neurological disorder which causes non-specific neurological symptoms such as headache, seizures and visual disturbances. It generally has a good prognosis, but severe complications can arise. Therefore, early recognition and treatment are paramount. Pre-eclampsia is a multiorgan disease and is associated with both maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality. Neurological symptoms occurring in the postpartum period indicate pre-eclampsia until proven otherwise. This case report was written to stress the attention on this rare complication of pre-eclampsia. When a patient in the postpartum period presents with a combination of seizures, disturbed vision and headache, PRES should always be kept in mind.