Reversible posterior leuko-encephalopathy syndrome: a case report

ABSTRACT

In a patient who was hospitalized for acute illness, we have noted a syndrome of altered mental functioning, seizures, severe hypertension and renal dysfunction, with findings indicating predominantly posterior leukoencephalopathy on brain CT scan. The findings on brain CT scan are characteristic of subcortical edema without infarction and are reversible. The patient was treated with anti-hypertensive medications and the neurological deficits recovered completely within thirteen days. Follow-up CT scan showed resolution of abnormalities in ten days. A diagnosis of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome was made retrospectively; we decided to report this case as we have noted that many physicians and radiologists are unaware of this relatively recently recognized neurological disorder, which has a good outcome with early diagnosis and prompt management