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Dehesa-Lopez E, Irizar-Santana SS, Valdez-Cruz MA, Sosa-Guerrero S, Lopez-Moreno F. Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome With Hemorrhagic Transformation in the Postoperative Period of a Kidney Transplant. Cureus 2024; 16:e55584. [PMID: 38576656 PMCID: PMC10993100 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who undergo kidney transplantation are at an increased risk of developing surgical and/or medical complications. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare complication that occurs in 0.34% of kidney transplant patients. It is characterized by a combination of neurological manifestations, risk factors, and characteristic radiological findings in neuroimaging studies. The development of PRES has been associated with various medical conditions and factors, including hypertension, the use of cytotoxic and immunosuppressive drugs, acute or chronic kidney disease, pre-eclampsia/eclampsia, autoimmune diseases, and solid organ and bone marrow transplantation. This report presents the case of a 19-year-old woman diagnosed with ESRD on hemodialysis due to lupus nephritis who experienced an episode of PRES with intraparenchymal hemorrhage during the postoperative period of kidney transplantation. The case emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring these patients during this period to enable early diagnosis and timely treatment of complications, ensuring a favorable prognosis.
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Bergman L, Torres-Vergara P, Penny J, Wikström J, Nelander M, Leon J, Tolcher M, Roberts JM, Wikström AK, Escudero C. Investigating Maternal Brain Alterations in Preeclampsia: the Need for a Multidisciplinary Effort. Curr Hypertens Rep 2019; 21:72. [PMID: 31375930 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-019-0977-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide insight into the mechanisms underlying cerebral pathophysiology and to highlight possible methods for evaluation, screening, and surveillance of cerebral complications in preeclampsia. RECENT FINDINGS The pathophysiology of eclampsia remains enigmatic. Animal studies show that the cerebral circulation in pregnancy and preeclampsia might be affected with increased permeability over the blood-brain barrier and altered cerebral blood flow due to impaired cerebral autoregulation. The increased blood pressure cannot be the only underlying cause of eclampsia and cerebral edema, since some cases of eclampsia arise without simultaneous hypertension. Findings from animal studies need to be confirmed in human tissues. Evaluation of brain alterations in preeclampsia and eclampsia is challenging and demands a multidisciplinary collaboration, since no single method can accurately and fully describe how preeclampsia affects the brain. Cerebral complications of preeclampsia are significant factors in maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. No single method can accurately describe the full picture of how preeclampsia affects the brain vasculature and parenchyma. We recommend an international and multidisciplinary effort not only to overcome the issue of limited sample availability but also to optimize the quality of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Bergman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
- Center for Clinical Research Dalarna, Falun, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Pablo Torres-Vergara
- Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillán, Chile
| | - Jeffrey Penny
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Johan Wikström
- Department of Radiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Nelander
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jose Leon
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillán, Chile
- Vascular Physiology Laboratory, Group of Investigation in Tumor Angiogenesis, (LFV-GIANT), Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Chillán, Chile
| | - Mary Tolcher
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - James M Roberts
- Magee Womens Research Institute, Dept of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Epidemiology and Clinical and Translational Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anna-Karin Wikström
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carlos Escudero
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillán, Chile.
- Vascular Physiology Laboratory, Group of Investigation in Tumor Angiogenesis, (LFV-GIANT), Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Chillán, Chile.
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Estol CJ, Atkins M, Mier JM, Caplan LR. lnterleukin-2 and Cisplatinum Therapy Toxicity Mimicking Basilar Artery Disease. J Neuroimaging 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jon199332146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome: The Spectrum of MR Imaging Patterns. Clin Neuroradiol 2014; 25:161-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s00062-014-0293-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Abstract
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is characterized by headache, altered mental status, visual disturbances, and seizures. Radiological features typically include edema of the posterior cerebral regions, especially of the parietooccipital lobes. Atypical imaging features, such as involvement of anterior cerebral regions, deep white matter, and the brain stem are also frequently seen. Vasoconstriction is common in vascular imaging. Different conditions have been associated with PRES, but toxemia of pregnancy, solid organ or bone marrow transplantation, immunosuppressive treatment, cancer chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, and hypertension are most commonly described. The pathophysiology of PRES is unclear and different hypotheses are being discussed. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is best managed by monitoring and treatment in the setting of a neurointensive care unit. The prognosis is usually benign with complete reversal of clinical symptoms within several days, when adequate treatment is immediately initiated. Treatment of severe hypertension, seizures, and withdrawal of causative agents represent the hallmarks of specific therapy in PRES. Delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to permanent neurological sequelae. Therefore, awareness of PRES is of crucial importance for the intensivist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitre Staykov
- Neurology Department, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany.
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Patel AJ, Fox BD, Fulkerson DH, Yallampalli S, Illner A, Whitehead WE, Curry DJ, Luerssen TG, Jea A. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome during posterior fossa tumor resection in a child. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2010; 6:377-80. [PMID: 20887113 DOI: 10.3171/2010.8.peds10110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) has been described in the setting of malignant hypertension, renal disease, eclampsia, and immunosuppression. In addition, a single case of intraoperative (posterior fossa craniotomy) PRES has been reported; however, this case occurred in an adult. The authors present a clinically and radiographically documented case of intraoperative PRES complicating the resection of a posterior fossa tumor in a 6-year-old child. During tumor resection, untoward force was used to circumferentially dissect the tumor, and excessive manipulation of the brainstem led to severe hypertension for a 10-minute period. An immediate postoperative MR image was obtained to rule out residual tumor, but instead the image showed findings consistent with PRES. Moreover, the patient's postoperative clinical findings were consistent with PRES. Aggressive postoperative management of blood pressure and the institution of anticonvulsant therapy were undertaken. The patient made a good recovery; however, he required a temporary tracheostomy and tube feedings for prolonged lower cranial nerve dysfunction. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome can occur as a result of severe hypertension during surgery, even among young children. With prompt treatment, the patient in the featured case experienced significant clinical and radiographic recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash J Patel
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Hefzy HM, Bartynski WS, Boardman JF, Lacomis D. Hemorrhage in posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: imaging and clinical features. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2009; 30:1371-9. [PMID: 19386731 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a1588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Hemorrhage is known to occur in posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), but the characteristics have not been analyzed in detail. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the imaging and clinical features of hemorrhage in PRES. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective assessment of 151 patients with PRES was performed, and 23 patients were identified who had intracranial hemorrhage at toxicity. Hemorrhage types were identified and tabulated, including minute focal hemorrhages (<5 mm), sulcal subarachnoid hemorrhage, and focal hematoma. Clinical features of hemorrhage and nonhemorrhage PRES groups were evaluated, including toxicity blood pressure, coagulation profile/platelet counts, coagulation-altering medication, and clinical conditions associated with PRES. Toxicity mean arterial pressure (MAP) groups were defined as normal (<106 mm Hg), mildly hypertensive (106-116 mm Hg), or severely hypertensive (>116 mm Hg). RESULTS The overall incidence of hemorrhage was 15.2%, with borderline statistical significance noted between the observed clinical associations (P = .07). Hemorrhage was significantly more common (P = .02) after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (allo-BMT) than after solid-organ transplantation. The 3 hemorrhage types were noted with equal frequency. A single hemorrhage type was found in 16 patients, with multiple types noted in 7. Patients undergoing therapeutic anticoagulation were statistically more likely to develop hemorrhage (P = .04). No difference in hemorrhage incidence was found among the 3 blood pressure subgroups (range, 14.9%-15.9%). CONCLUSIONS Three distinct types of hemorrhage (minute hemorrhage, sulcal subarachnoid hemorrhage, hematoma) were identified in PRES with equal frequency. The greatest hemorrhage frequency was seen after allo-BMT and in patients undergoing therapeutic anticoagulation. Hemorrhage rate was independent of the toxicity blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Hefzy
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Bartynski WS. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, part 1: fundamental imaging and clinical features. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2008; 29:1036-42. [PMID: 18356474 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a0928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 686] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurotoxic state coupled with a unique CT or MR imaging appearance. Recognized in the setting of a number of complex conditions (preeclampsia/eclampsia, allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, organ transplantation, autoimmune disease and high dose chemotherapy) the imaging, clinical and laboratory features of this toxic state are becoming better elucidated. This review summarizes the basic and advanced imaging features of PRES, along with pertinent features of the clinical and laboratory presentation and available histopathology. Many common imaging/clinical/laboratory observations are present among these patients, despite the perception of widely different associated clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- W S Bartynski
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, University of Pittsburgh, Presbyterian University Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Bartynski WS. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, part 2: controversies surrounding pathophysiology of vasogenic edema. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2008; 29:1043-9. [PMID: 18403560 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a0929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 693] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurotoxic state accompanied by a unique brain imaging pattern typically associated with a number of complex clinical conditions including: preeclampsia/eclampsia, allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, solid organ transplantation, autoimmune diseases and high dose cancer chemotherapy. The mechanism behind the developing vasogenic edema and CT or MR imaging appearance of PRES is not known. Two theories have historically been proposed: 1) Severe hypertension leads to failed auto-regulation, subsequent hyperperfusion, with endothelial injury/vasogenic edema and; 2) vasoconstriction and hypoperfusion leads to brain ischemia and subsequent vasogenic edema. The strengths/weaknesses of these hypotheses are reviewed in a translational fashion including supporting evidence and current available imaging/clinical data related to the conditions that develop PRES. While the hypertension/hyperperfusion theory has been most popular, the conditions associated with PRES have a similar immune challenge present and develop a similar state of T-cell/endothelial cell activation that may be the basis of leukocyte trafficking and systemic/cerebral vasoconstriction. These systemic features along with current vascular and perfusion imaging features in PRES appear to render strong support for the older theory of vasoconstriction coupled with hypoperfusion as the mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- W S Bartynski
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, University of Pittsburgh, Presbyterian University Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Ioscovich AM, Nyman DJ, Briskin A, Grisaru-Granovsky S. Transient cortical blindness after caesarean hysterectomy for placenta percreta. Int J Obstet Anesth 2004; 13:291-3. [PMID: 15477065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijoa.2004.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2004] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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11
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Bartynski WS, Sanghvi A. Neuroimaging of delayed eclampsia. Report of 3 cases and review of the literature. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2003; 27:699-713. [PMID: 14501361 DOI: 10.1097/00004728-200309000-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings consistent with eclampsia were recently encountered in 3 patients who developed severe headache days to weeks after uncomplicated delivery. The neurologic presentation was nonspecific, and pre-eclamptic symptoms were not present, including significant hypertension. Variable expression of pre-eclampsia occurred during the course of their observation. Conventional angiography obtained in 2 patients because of a concern for aneurysm demonstrated central and peripheral vasospasm. Magnetic resonance angiography demonstrated central vasospasm in the third patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter S Bartynski
- Department of Radiology, The Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Errol R Norwitz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
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Moriarity JL, Lim M, Storm PB, Beauchamp NJ, Olivi A. Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Occurring during Resection of a Posterior Fossa Tumor: Case Report and Review of the Literature. Neurosurgery 2001. [DOI: 10.1227/00006123-200111000-00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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14
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Moriarity JL, Lim M, Storm PB, Beauchamp NJ, Olivi A. Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy occurring during resection of a posterior fossa tumor: case report and review of the literature. Neurosurgery 2001; 49:1237-9; discussion 1239-40. [PMID: 11846918 DOI: 10.1097/00006123-200111000-00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2001] [Accepted: 06/29/2001] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE Our goal was to present a clinically and radiographically documented case of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy (RPL) that occurred during resection of a posterior fossa tumor. Although RPL has been previously described in multiple nonsurgical settings, we hope that this case description makes RPL more clinically and radiographically recognizable to neurosurgeons. CLINICAL PRESENTATION RPL is the clinical syndrome of headaches, altered mental status, seizures, and visual loss, with radiographic findings of reversible parieto-occipital changes on cerebral computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging scans. It has been previously reported in the settings of malignant hypertension, renal disease, eclampsia, and immunosuppression. To our knowledge, the patient presented represents the first clinically and radiographically documented case of RPL occurring during resection of a posterior fossa tumor. The patient intraoperatively exhibited wide fluctuations in blood pressure and awoke with clinical and radiographic findings consistent with RPL. INTERVENTION Aggressive intraoperative and postoperative management of the patient's blood pressure, supportive intensive care, rehabilitation, and close radiographic follow-up were performed. CONCLUSION RPL can occur as a result of intraoperative variations in blood pressure, even among young, previously healthy individuals. With the aforementioned interventions, the patient experienced significant clinical and radiographic recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Moriarity
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 North Wolfe Street, Meyer 7-113, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Abstract
A 36-year-old preeclamptic woman presented with bilateral visual loss upon recovery from anesthesia following cesarean section. Visual acuity was hand motion OU. Pupillary responses to light were normal, without a relative afferent pupillary defect. Treatment consisted of control of blood pressure and the patient's vision improved to 20/25 OU within 3 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Park
- Neuro-Ophthalmology Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Borromeo CJ, Blike GT, Wiley CW, Hirsch JA. Cortical Blindness in a Preeclamptic Patient After a Cesarean Delivery Complicated by Hypotension. Anesth Analg 2000. [DOI: 10.1213/00000539-200009000-00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Borromeo CJ, Blike GT, Wiley CW, Hirsch JA. Cortical blindness in a preeclamptic patient after a cesarean delivery complicated by hypotension. Anesth Analg 2000; 91:609-11. [PMID: 10960386 DOI: 10.1097/00000539-200009000-00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
IMPLICATIONS Visual strokes can occur after prolonged hypotension or as a complication of preeclampsia-eclampsia. This case describes the diagnostic dilemma posed by a patient who developed transient blindness after a hypotensive episode during cesarean delivery for severe preeclampsia-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Borromeo
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Radiology, Lahey Clinic, Burlington,
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Schaefer PW, Buonanno FS, Gonzalez RG, Schwamm LH. Diffusion-weighted imaging discriminates between cytotoxic and vasogenic edema in a patient with eclampsia. Stroke 1997; 28:1082-5. [PMID: 9158653 DOI: 10.1161/01.str.28.5.1082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathophysiology of eclampsia remains unclear. While the majority of patients develop reversible T2 hyperintense signal abnormalities on MR scans and reversible neurological deficits, some patients do develop infarctions (permanent T2 hyperintense abnormalities) and permanent neurological impairment. Routine MRI cannot prospectively differentiate between these two patient groups. Echo-planar diffusion-weighted imaging, however, is a new technique that clearly differentiates between cytotoxic and vasogenic edema. CASE DESCRIPTION A 30-year-old woman developed symptoms consistent with eclampsia 24 hours after delivering premature twins. An MRI demonstrated extensive, diffuse T2 hyperintense signal abnormalities involving subcortical white matter and adjacent gray matter with a posterior predominance, consistent with either infarction or hypertensive ischemic encephalopathy. Diffusion-weighted images demonstrated increased diffusion, consistent with vasogenic edema and hypertensive ischemic encephalopathy. CONCLUSIONS Unlike routine MRI, diffusion-weighted imaging reliably differentiates between vasogenic edema and cytotoxic edema. Consequently, in eclamptic patients diffusion-weighted imaging can afford clear differentiation between hypertensive ischemic encephalopathy and infarction, two very different entities with very different treatment protocols. Diffusion-weighted imaging should be performed in all eclamptic patients and should greatly affect their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W Schaefer
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston 02114, USA
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Hashimoto H, Kuriyama Y, Naritomi H, Sawada T. Serial assessments of middle cerebral artery flow velocity with transcranial Doppler sonography in the recovery stage of eclampsia. A case report. Angiology 1997; 48:355-8. [PMID: 9112884 DOI: 10.1177/000331979704800409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiologic changes of eclampsia and/or hypertensive encephalopathy are unclear. Changes of middle cerebral artery flow velocity during the recovery stage in a case of eclampsia are reported. After the disappearance of signs and symptoms, the flow velocity began to increase, owing probably to delayed vasospasm, which was confirmed by magnetic resonance angiography. The vasospasm may be a consequence of eclampsia and may be of small significance in the pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hashimoto
- Department of Medicine, National Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
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Abstract
Neurological complications in patients with eclampsia are varied and include headache, visual disturbances, focal neurological deficits, altered mental status and coma. Occasionally, a focal neurological deficit includes a variety of visual disturbances. The pathophysiology of CNS abnormalities in patients with eclampsia is uncertain. Our cases, combined with a review of the literature, demonstrate that there is no correlation among severity of hypertension, parity, and location of lesions at initial magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings or between the severity of hypertension and neurological symptoms. Two typical patterns are seen on MR images of patients with eclampsia. Lesions in the region of the posterior cerebral circulation are most common and are frequently associated with visual disturbances. Although there are lesions in the deep white matter or basal ganglia, a focal neurological deficit or alterations in mental status may not develop. This demonstrates the sensitivity of MR imaging in the detection of abnormalities in patients with eclampsia, even those without neurological deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Unal
- Department of Radiology, Medical Faculty, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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Versluis PJ, den Ouden M, Wilmink JT, Hasaart THM. CT and MRI demonstration of cerebral edema in preeclampsia: a report of two cases. Eur Radiol 1994. [DOI: 10.1007/bf00212829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Raps EC, Galetta SL, Broderick M, Atlas SW. Delayed peripartum vasculopathy: cerebral eclampsia revisited. Ann Neurol 1993; 33:222-5. [PMID: 8434886 DOI: 10.1002/ana.410330215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Over a 2-year period, we treated 4 postpartum patients with acute neurologic problems appearing 4 to 9 days after delivery. Three patients either had no proteinuria or edema and therefore did not meet all accepted clinical criteria for the diagnosis of eclampsia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain in all patients demonstrated high-signal foci most prominent in the parieto-occipital regions and the subcortical white matter. Cerebral angiogram in 2 patients revealed diffuse vasospasm. In 3 patients, MRI abnormalities resolved. MRI and angiographic abnormalities in our patients are identical to those of patients meeting accepted criteria for eclampsia. Our experience suggests that the current criteria for the diagnosis of eclampsia are too stringent, both in terms of clinical picture and days postpartum to cerebral manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Raps
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104
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Becker T, Kornhuber J, Hofmann E, Weller M, Rupprecht C, Beckmann H. MRI white matter hyperintensity in neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)--a clue to pathogenesis? J Neural Transm (Vienna) 1992; 90:151-9. [PMID: 1463594 DOI: 10.1007/bf01250797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The case of a young female patient with neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and extended MRI white matter hyperintensity in the left parietal and both occipital lobes is reported. MRI lesions resembled findings in hypertensive encephalopathy, they were not readily compatible with CNS vasculitis. Venous sinus thrombosis could be ruled out. Vascular encephalopathy with transient white matter edema and a small residual left parietal lesion is suggested. Neurochemical implications are discussed with particular reference to a possible involvement of excitatory amino acids in NMS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Becker
- Department Psychiatry University of Würzburg, Federal Republic of Germany
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Abstract
Blindness is a rare but dramatic complication of pregnancy and delivery. We present the case of a patient who developed toxemia at the time of delivery that with ineffective treatment resulted in cortical blindness without seizure activity. The pathogenesis as well as the diagnostic workup and treatment of this unusual complication are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- V P Verdile
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania
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