Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in a patient with late postpartum eclampsia

Abstract

Rationale: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare complication commonly associated with headache and acute changes in blood pressure that results from a variety of causes, culminating in vasogenic cerebral edema in the occipital and parietal lobes of the brain. Patient concerns: We report here a woman who suffered from headache, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and cortical blindness in the late postpartum period. Diagnoses: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Interventions: The patient was treated with amlodipine besylate tablets for hypertension, dehydration with mannitol and glycerin fructose, and antispasmodic treatment with sodium valproate and oxcarbazepine. Outcomes: On day 2, the patient became conscious, headache and vision improved. One week later, symptoms and signs disappeared, blood pressure returned to normal, and brain MRI lesions disappeared in re-examination. Lessons: Eclampsia associated with PRES is reversible in most cases, but it is a serious and potentially life-threatening obstetric emergency. If adequate treatment is provided in a timely manner, most women will make a full recovery. Attention needs to be paid to timely and adequate treatment, as well as appropriate follow-up and support for patients with PRES.