Taravana syndrome and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: a microbubble hypothesis for neurological accidents in breath-hold divers.

Breath-hold diving is a challenging activity that can lead to serious and dangerous complications, such as the "Taravana" syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by the onset of neurological symptoms after deep or repeated dives. The main clinical manifestations are cerebral, including stroke and cognitive impairment. The pathophysiology of Taravana syndrome is still widely debated, but the most accepted theory is that it is a specific form of decompression sickness. We have reviewed the main theories explaining the onset of Taravana syndrome and, through the description of a particularly illustrative case of a freediver using an underwater scooter, we have formulated a hypothesis according to which micro-bubbles formed directly in cerebral structures would be at the origin of this syndrome. MRI showed diffuse encephalopathy with vasogenic edema. Analysis of the radiological sequences did not suggest an ischemic or embolic mechanism. This finding is likely to be associated with the diagnosis of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. The rapid ascent speeds associated with underwater scooter use could potentially result in the formation of nitrogen micro-bubbles in the capillaries of brain tissue. The emergence of scooters in freediving can be a hazard because of their ability to facilitate very rapid ascents. It is therefore essential to take preventive measures to ensure the safety of users of these devices.

Remarkable recovery following prolonged out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) versus posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)-a case report.

Background: Cardiac arrest is the most dramatic event that compromises the cerebral blood flow with fatal outcomes. Factors like the presence of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation, initial rhythm, and arrest time significantly influence outcomes. However, despite these known factors, there are still aspects of cardiac arrest-related neurological complications that remain less understood. As evidenced by limited case reports, the association between posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and cardiac arrest is not widely known. Case Description: We present a case study of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) involving a patient with multiple comorbidities and factors that could complicate her neurological outcome. Despite experiencing a delayed recovery following the cardiac arrest event and an initial insult to the brain, the patient exhibited remarkable neurological recovery. There has been a complex individualized targeted management that contributed to the favorable outcome. Conclusions: This case study provides valuable insights into the complexities of managing OHCA patients, the factors influencing recovery, and the importance of a multidisciplinary team for early diagnosis and treatment of conditions like PRES to prevent permanent neurological damage. Further research into this area is necessary to better understand the mechanisms and implications of such associations for improving patient care and outcomes following cardiac arrest.

Calcineurin inhibitors-related posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in liver transplant recipients: Three case reports and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), characterized by acute neurological deterioration and extensive white matter lesions on T2-fluid attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is increasingly associated with calcineurin inhibitors (CNI)-related neurotoxicity. Prompt diagnosis is crucial, as early intervention, including the modification or discontinuation of CNI therapy, strict blood pressure management, corticosteroid treatment, and supportive care can significantly improve patient outcomes and prognosis. The growing clinical recognition of CNI-related PRES underscores the importance of identifying and managing this condition in patients presenting with acute neurological symptoms. CASE SUMMARY: This report describes three cases of liver transplant recipients who developed PRES. The first case involves a 60-year-old woman who experienced seizures, aphasia, and hemiplegia on postoperative day (POD) 9, with MRI revealing ischemic foci followed by extensive white matter lesions. After replacing tacrolimus, her symptoms improved, and no significant MRI abnormalities were observed after three years of follow-up. The second case concerns a 54-year-old woman with autoimmune hepatitis who developed headaches, seizures, and extensive white matter demyelination on MRI on POD24. Following the switch to rapamycin and the initiation of corticosteroids, her symptoms resolved, and she was discharged on POD95. The third case details a 60-year-old woman with hepatocellular carcinoma who developed PRES, evidenced by brain MRI abnormalities on POD11. Transitioning to rapamycin and corticosteroid therapy led to her full recovery, and she was discharged on POD22. These cases highlight the critical importance of early diagnosis, CNI modification, and stringent management in improving outcomes for liver transplant recipients with CNI-related PRES. CONCLUSION: Clinical manifestations, combined with characteristic MRI findings, are crucial in diagnosing PRES among organ transplant recipients. However, when standard treatments are ineffective or MRI results are atypical, alternative diagnoses should be taken into considered.

A case of bilateral cortical blindness followed by generalised tonic-clonic seizure epilepsy in a patient with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is rare, with ocular symptoms as the first manifestation being even rarer. Here, we report a case of PRES in a patient with ESKD, characterized by sudden binocular blurred vision followed by epilepsy, to improve the understanding of this syndrome among nephrologists and ophthalmologists. A 50-year-old female requested an ophthalmic consultation due to bilateral vision loss followed by generalised tonic-clonic seizures. One month before onset of current illness, she developed ESKD secondary to rapid progression of previous ANCA vasculitis associated renal damage. Latter magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of PRES. Two weeks later, the patient's vision fully recovered. Conclusion: PRES is not an etiological diagnosis but a neuroimaging sign. In addition, PRES is a danger signal that is usually reversible if recognized and treated early, and can be life-threatening if treatment is delayed.

Association of Sjögren's syndrome with immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: A case report.

Background: A patient with Sjögren's syndrome (SS), immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITTP), and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) was reported, and all published cases with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), PRES, and SS were retrieved and analysed. The patient's clinical data and treatment procedure have been discussed. Case summary: A 45-year-old Chinese female was hospitalized with headache and low platelet count. She had previously presented to a local hospital with a 7-month history of epigastric discomfort and anorexia, and was diagnosed with SS and ITTP. Laboratory investigations after admission showed platelet (PLT) of 13*10^9/L, red blood cell (RBC) fragments of 6 %, ADAMTS13 Activity＜0.2 %, anti-ADAMTS13 IgG of 88.3U/mL. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed gyriform restricted diffusion along with increased T2-FLAIR signal in the left frontal cortex and bilateral parietal temporal cortex. She was diagnosed with SS, ITTP and PRES, and received the treatment of methylprednisolone, cyclosporine, plasma exchange, IVIG, and rituximab. This patient did not experience the recurrence during the 8-month follow-up period. Conclusion: ITTP and PRES are rare manifestations of SS. After a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of ITTP, plasma exchange and immunosuppressive therapy should be immediately administered. We suggest that rituximab could have additional therapeutic value for SS combined with ITTP and PRES.

Magnetic resonance imaging patterns and perfusion changes of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in children with clinical outcome correlation.

BACKGROUND: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in children has a propensity towards atypical features on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, with limited literature on perfusion changes and clinicoradiological correlation. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to comprehensively study MR imaging patterns of pediatric PRES, including cerebral blood flow variations on arterial spin labeling, and looked for any MR biomarkers of poor clinical outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective observational study conducted in a tertiary hospital setting, MR records over a 4-year period (May 2019 to May 2023) were systematically searched along with their clinical details. Patients with an age less than 18 years and a clinicoradiological constellation consistent with PRES were included. MR scans were analyzed by two neuroradiologists with 8 years' and 10 years' experience. Association was sought with poor clinical outcome (defined as modified Rankin Scale score at discharge of > 2). RESULTS: A total of 45 patients (29 boys) were included in the study, with a mean age (± standard deviation) of 11.19 (± 4.53) years. On MR imaging, 95.6% of patients (n = 43) showed atypical features and/or atypical areas of involvement. The superior frontal sulcus (n = 18) was the most predominant MR pattern, and cerebellar involvement was not uncommon (n = 15). Unilateral involvement (n = 3), isolated central pattern (n = 1), and spinal cord involvement (PRES-SCI: n = 1) were also encountered. Brainstem involvement (n = 4) showed a characteristic "V-sign" of anterior medullary hyperintensity. Patchy restricted diffusion (46.6%), punctate hemorrhages (37.7%), and leptomeningeal contrast enhancement (36%) were not uncommon. Arterial spin labeling sequence (available in 24 patients) showed increased cerebral blood flow in the involved areas in 79.2% of patients. Univariate analysis showed a significant association of the presence of hemorrhage (P = 0.003), involvement of brainstem (P = 0.007), deep white matter (P = 0.008), and thalamus (P = 0.026) with poor clinical outcome. Multivariate regression analysis found that hemorrhage on MRI (P = 0.011, odds ratio 8) was an independent factor associated with poor clinical outcome. CONCLUSIONS: The conventionally described atypical features in PRES are common in children and therefore may no longer be considered exceptions. Raised perfusion on arterial spin labeling sequence was seen in the majority of cases. Hemorrhage on MRI was an independent predictor of poor clinical outcome in pediatric PRES.

Case Report: AMSAN variant of GBS complicating immediate postpartum period with severe dysautonomia leading to Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome.

A 20's primiparous woman, following spontaneous expulsion of intrauterine death of the fetus at 30 weeks of gestation, presented on post-partum day 8 with acute onset flaccid quadriparesis and breathing difficulty, which had rapidly progressed to involve the legs on day 3 up to her upper limbs on post-partum day 5. Following examination, Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) with ascending diaphragmatic involvement was diagnosed, and plasma exchange was initiated. She developed raised blood pressure, headache, sudden onset visual loss with 2 episodes of generalized seizures on post-partum day 14. Brain MRI and clinical suspicion helped diagnose Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES). The patient was treated with anticonvulsants and antihypertensive agents. She regained her vision over the next two days, completed the treatment for GBS, and made a good recovery with independence for advanced activities of daily living on follow-up.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and parkinsonism as the first manifestation of primary hyperparathyroidism - a report of two cases.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) may be asymptomatic or present with renal calculi, secondary osteoporosis, fractures and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and parkinsonism are atypical manifestations that may be rarely associated with PHPT. We report two patients who presented with the conditions mentioned above. CASE REPORT: The first patient involved a 38-year-old woman who presented with diminution of vision, seizures, altered behavior and hypertension over eight months. An MRI of the brain done had shown vasogenic edema involving the parieto-occipital regions, suggestive of PRES. A metabolic screen revealed PTH-dependent hypercalcemia that was localized to the left inferior parathyroid gland. Following focused parathyroidectomy, there was improvement in sensorium, vision and normalization of blood pressure. The second patient was of a 74-year-old man who presented with progressive extrapyramidal symptoms of gait abnormalities and rigidity since the past eight months. He was initiated on Selegeline and Levodopa for the same purpose, and subsequently reported minimal improvement in symptoms. Investigations revealed PHPT associated with a right inferior parathyroid adenoma. Within two weeks following surgery, there was an improvement in rigidity and gait and he was able to ambulate without support. DISCUSSION: PRES has been reported to occur in the context of preeclampsia, hypertension, infection, sepsis and autoimmune conditions. PRES associated with hypercalcemia is rarely reported. While extra-pyramidally related manifestations are described in hypoparathyroidism, PHPT related parkinsonism is not commonly encountered. Identifying the underlying aetiology and initiation of corrective measures may lead to amelioration of patient symptomatology. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of PRES and parkinsonism is rare in primary hyperparathyroidism; the two patients described above highlight the importance of screening for hypercalcemia in the setting of neurological manifestations.

[Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in autoimmune disorders]. / Sindrom zadnei obratimoi entsefalopatii pri autoimmunnykh narusheniyakh.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is characterized by nonspecific symptoms, including not only pronounced non-focal and various focal neurological signs but also specific neuroimaging features, including vasogenic edema affecting predominantly the posterior area. PRES usually develops in the setting of acute arterial hypertension. However, it is not uncommon for PRES to develop in non-hypertensive patients, including people with autoimmune disorders (multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, etc). PRES could also be due to the toxic effects of drugs or other substances. The pathophysiological mechanisms of PRES include impaired autoregulation of cerebral blood flow due to acute arterial hypertension and toxic endotheliotropic effects of endogenous and exogenous factors.

Atypical Presentation of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES): A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a reversible clinico-radiological entity characterized by acute neurological symptoms and white matter vasogenic edema that commonly affects the posterior occipital and parietal lobes of the brain. Patients with this condition usually present with complaints of headache, encephalopathy, seizures, or visual disturbances. Nystagmus and periodic alternating gaze are rarely reported presentations of PRES patients. Similarly, involvement of the brainstem, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and other cerebral areas are atypical findings on brain imaging. Early diagnosis and immediate treatment can reverse both the clinical and radiological features of PRES.

Neurological Complications of COVID-19 Infection: A Comprehensive Review.

The COVID-19 pandemic is well on its way to reaching endemic status across the globe. While the medical community's understanding of the respiratory complications induced by COVID-19 is improving, there is still much to be learned about the neurological manifestations associated with COVID-19 infection. This review aimed to compile relevant, available evidence of COVID-19-induced neurological complications and to provide information for each complication regarding symptomology, progression patterns, demographic risk factors, treatment, and causative mechanism of action when available. Data for this review was collected using a confined search on PubMed using the keywords ["COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2"] AND ["neurological complications" OR "olfactory symptoms" OR "gustatory symptoms" OR "myalgia" OR "headache" OR "dizziness" OR "stroke" OR "seizures" OR "meningoencephalitis" OR "cerebellar ataxia" OR "acute myelitis" OR "Guillain Barré Syndrome" OR "Miller Fisher Syndrome" OR "Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome"] between 2019 and 2023. A wide range of neurological manifestations impact a significant percentage of COVID-19 patients, and a deeper understanding of these manifestations is necessary to ensure adequate management. The most common neurological complications identified consist of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions, myalgia, headache, and dizziness, while the most severe complications include stroke, seizures, meningoencephalitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, Miller Fisher syndrome, acute myelitis, and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. While this review effectively provides a roadmap of the neurological risks posed to COVID-19 patients, further research is needed to clarify the precise incidence of these complications and to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for their manifestation.

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) following blood transfusion in a polytrauma victim, an atypical occurrence.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neuroradiological syndrome, clinically present by impaired consciousness, headache, visual disturbances, and seizures, and radiologically brain edema. Cases of PRES induced by blood transfusion are rarely documented. We report this case to increase the awareness of treating physicians for the possible complications of rapid blood transfusion. A 29-year-old man presented with polytrauma and was in hemorrhagic shock. He was transfused with multiple transfusions. Later, he was found to have quadriplegia with minimal movement of fingers in the left hand. His computed tomography showed cerebral edema in multiple cerebral regions. We propose that the etiology in this case is that rapid blood transfusion induced acute rise in hemoglobin which led to PRES. The influences of blood transfusion on blood flow, blood viscosity, and endothelial dysfunction lead to blood-brain barrier dysfunction, which can result in PRES.

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome, not so Uncommon in Pediatric Patients with Renal Involvement: A Case Series.

Introduction: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) primarily shows neurological symptoms and is more frequent in males, often occurring in oncological patients. It can also be associated with renal conditions like post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, a common cause of pediatric hypertension. Management involves blood pressure and seizure treatment. In some cases, it may lead to irreversible and severe complications. Early treatment is essential for prevention. Presentation of case series: In the past six months, we have documented the cases of two patients, aged 15 and 10, both of whom presented with PRES and renal disease. These patients were admitted because of general malaise, headaches, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and elevated blood pressure. Subsequently, both patients experienced epileptic episodes. Only the first patient required transfer to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans revealed distinct PRES lesions in both cases. Following comprehensive investigations, both cases were diagnosed with PRES in the context of acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Conclusions: The patients showed improvement following the administration of antihypertensive and anticonvulsant medications, along with treatment for the underlying renal condition.

A case report on posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in an elderly female.

Introduction and importance: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a medical condition characterized by symptoms such as headache, altered consciousness, visual abnormalities, seizures, and associated radiological vasogenic edema. The condition, as its name suggests, is generally reversible. PRES typically affects individuals around the age of 45 and is rarely seen in the elderly population. Case presentation: In this report, the authors present the case of an 83-year-old woman who presented to the emergency department with a history of seizures and visual disturbances. Upon examination, her Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was 14, and she had bilateral round,reactive, regular pupils. A plain computed tomography (CT) head was performed, which revealed multiple hemorrhagic areas in the occipital region associated with vasogenic edema. magnetic resonance imaging was done which was suggestive of PRES. The individual underwent conservative management in the authors' institute and gradually recovered. Clinical discussion: PRES typically presents in middle-aged individuals, with infrequent occurrences in the elderly population. Early radiological and clinical assessments are crucial for the prompt diagnosis of this condition. Additionally, it is essential to identify predisposing factors such as hypertension, eclampsia, electrolyte imbalances, renal failure, autoimmune diseases, and the use of cytotoxic drugs for optimum management of the patient. Conclusion: PRES is generally reversible, as its name implies. Maintaining a high level of suspicion based on radiological and clinical correlations, coupled with the effective management of underlying conditions, can contribute to its potential reversibility.

Clinical Presentation and Imaging Findings of Irreversible Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy-Related Inflammation (CAA-ri): A Case Report and Literature Review.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related inflammation (CAA-ri) is a rare condition primarily driven by an autoimmune reaction against cerebrovascular amyloid beta protein. Accurate diagnosis hinges on recognizing characteristic clinical symptoms and imaging features, such as asymmetric cerebral white matter lesions often linked to angioedema. We report the case of a woman in her 70s with progressive, irreversible CAA-ri who initially presented with left homonymous hemianopia and experienced significant psychiatric and neurological deterioration following an epileptic seizure. Despite initiating corticosteroid therapy seven months after onset, her condition continued to worsen, ultimately leading to her death in the 11th month due to general decline. This report reviews the clinical progression and imaging findings of the case, discusses the diagnostic process for CAA-ri, differentiates it from related conditions, and evaluates the timing of corticosteroid treatment.

Co-occurrence of anti-phospholipid syndrome and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in a patient with Autoimmune hepatitis: A case report.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurological disease characterized by a variety of neurological findings, in accordance with radiological characteristics. PRES is commonly secondary to elevated BP and/or conditions such as autoimmune patients receiving immunosuppressive drugs. Our case involves a 36-year-old female with a history of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), who presented with sudden onset headaches from 3 weeks prior, and a single episode of seizure attack the morning before admission. In the initial examination she had highly elevated blood pressure (BP) (190/116). Her neurological examination revealed decline in force of limbs in addition to mild paresthesia. After primary stabilization, she underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging. Due to the clinical and radiological findings, the patient was diagnosed with PRES. In the following work-up of BP elevation, abdominopelvic sonography and subsequent computed tomography scan, multiple lesions were observed in spleen and both kidneys consistent with infarction. In further evaluation, Lupus-like anticoagulants were found to be elevated, which, in conjunction with the confirmed antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), suggested a possible role for APS-nephropathy as the missing link between PRES and APS. However, despite the role of an autoimmune disease in increasing the risk of developing other autoimmune conditions, APS and AIH have been rarely observed together. Our study indicates that developing APS in the context of AIH is a rare occurrence. However, APS could serve as a critical intermediary, potentially facilitating the onset of PRES despite lower BP.

Early onset of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) following postpartum eclampsia-A case report.

Early screening and management of postpartum posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) can reduce hospital stay and complications. Obstetricians, gynecologists, ophthalmologists, and even general physicians should be aware of PRES since its presentation is variable.

Acute Intermittent Porphyria Presenting with Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome, Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome and Myocardial Ischemia: A Case Report and Review.

Acute intermittent porphyria is a rare autosomal dominant metabolic disorder. It can affect the autonomic, peripheral, and central nervous system. The present study reports on the case of 28-year-old Chinese female patient with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and myocardial ischemia which have been very rarely reported in patients with acute intermittent porphyria.

A Rare Case of Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Presenting as Chronic Interstitial Nephritis.

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome commonly presents as rapidly progressive renal failure and is histologically characterized by thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). TMA presenting with acute renal failure requires aggressive medical management. Here, we present a case of a 30-year-old man who presented with a history of accelerated hypertension and a strong family history of end-stage renal disease, in September 2023. Upon evaluation, he was found to have a creatinine level of 2 mg/dl, bland urine and normal-sized kidneys; a renal biopsy revealed chronic interstitial nephritis. Genetic analysis for autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease and nephronophthisis yielded negative results. The patient was managed with antihypertensive medications. In January 2024, he was admitted with a history of confusion, headache, and alcohol binge. He had a blood pressure of 200/100 mmHg and had grade 3 hypertensive retinopathy. Laboratory tests revealed anemia with thrombocytopenia, bland urine, normal coagulation parameters, indirect hyperbilirubinemia, normal-sized kidneys on ultrasound, and elevated lactate dehydrogenase levels. MRI of the brain revealed symmetrical hyperintensities in bilateral cerebellum and the dorsal brainstem. Complement levels revealed low C3 levels and genetic analysis revealed a homozygous deletion in the complement factor H-related 3 (CFHR3) gene. The autoantibody for complement factor H was negative. The patient was managed conservatively with adequate blood pressure control. This case highlights the effects of complement dysregulation on the renal tubulointerstitium.