Posterior Reversible Encephalitis Syndrome (PRES) in a paediatric patient in the intensive care unit

Abstract

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is an entity that has gained importance in recent years. The diagnosis is clinical-radiological. Clinically, the patient presents neurological alterations such as headache, decreased level of consciousness, seizures, and visual disturbances. Radiologically, it includes cerebral oedema, predominantly of the white matter of parietal-occipital regions on magnetic resonance imaging. Multiple situations can trigger this condition, including high blood pressure, immunosuppressants, steroids, and chemotherapy well-known risk factors. An early diagnosis and adequate treatment are essential to avoid the appearance of sequelae in these patients.

This case consists of a patient diagnosed at 11 years of age with a bifocal non-germline tumour in the brain who, after treatment with chemotherapy, presented a clinical deterioration with instability compatible with septic shock. Subsequently, he presented a sudden alteration in the level of consciousness accompanied by hypertension and renal failure, which was suspected of PRES after a brain CT imaging test.