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VOLUME 21 , ISSUE 11 ( 2017 ) > List of Articles

BRIEF COMMUNICATION

Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in intensive care unit – Case series

Yogesh Manhas, Atheel Kimona, S. Prakash

Keywords : ICU, PRES, Neuro-imaging

Citation Information : Manhas Y, Kimona A, Prakash S. Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in intensive care unit – Case series. Indian J Crit Care Med 2017; 21 (11):772-778.

DOI: 10.4103/ijccm.IJCCM_235_17

License: CC BY-ND 3.0

Published Online: 01-06-2012

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2017; The Author(s).


Abstract

Introduction: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is characterized by a range of clinico neuro radiological manifestation along with hypertension due to varied etiology. Contrary to its name, a small number of patients have residual neurological deficits. Patients with severe manifestation of PRES may get admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to coma or status epilepticus. Small case series and large multicenter studies have been reported. Materials and Methods: We report a single center series of ten cases admitted to ICU over a 5 year period in a tertiary care centre. We retrospectively analyzed patients, admitted to adult ICU with different etiologies, and diagnosed to have PRES. Outcome at discharge and at 90 days after ICU admission was noted. Result: The most common etiologies were medications. ICU admissions were mainly for uncontrolled hypertension, seizures, and low level of consciousness. All except one patient were ventilated. Four patients had residual neurological damage. Conclusion: Irrespective of the etiology, early control of blood pressure, and removal of precipitating factors is of paramount importance to prevent morbidity and mortality. Awareness about PRES among the intensivist is necessary to ensure early recognition and treatment.


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