Publication:

A case of post-splenectomy posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: a reversible event

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a disease characterized by features of clinical and neuroimaging findings. The basics of recognizing the entity include a combination of clinical features and radiological findings in the presence of triggering factors. Clinically the patient can have various presentations like nausea, vomiting, blurring of vision, seizures, altered consciousness, transient motor deficits, or cortical blindness. Radiologically the findings can be picked up by computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or diffusion-weighted imaging. The usual factors that can trigger the PRES include blood pressure fluctuations, eclampsia/preeclampsia, renal failure, cytotoxic agents, and autoimmune conditions. With vigilant suspicion and prompt treatment, patients can be saved from serious complications. Here we wish to report a case of a 22-year male patient who developed PRES syndrome after undergoing an emergency splenectomy and recovered with conservative medical management for the condition. This syndrome can be managed well with an early diagnosis which needs keen suspicion and prompt treatment.