Delayed diagnosis of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in a parturient with preeclampsia after inadvertent dural puncture

Int J Obstet Anesth. 2007 Apr;16(2):171-4. doi: 10.1016/j.ijoa.2006.08.015. Epub 2007 Jan 30.

Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is a rare complication generally associated with headache and acute changes in blood pressure. We present a case of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome where diagnosis was delayed because the patient also had preeclampsia and an inadvertent dural puncture, both associated with headache. The clinical challenge and the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment are emphasized.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain / pathology
  • Calcium Channel Blockers / administration & dosage
  • Cesarean Section
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Headache / etiology
  • Humans
  • Hypertensive Encephalopathy / diagnosis*
  • Hypertensive Encephalopathy / drug therapy
  • Hypertensive Encephalopathy / etiology
  • Magnesium Sulfate / administration & dosage
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Medical Errors*
  • Pneumocephalus / etiology
  • Post-Dural Puncture Headache / diagnosis*
  • Post-Dural Puncture Headache / etiology
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications* / diagnosis
  • Rare Diseases
  • Seizures / etiology
  • Spinal Puncture* / adverse effects
  • Syndrome
  • Time

Substances

  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Magnesium Sulfate