Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an acute or subacute neurologic condition characterized by headache, encephalopathy, seizures, and visual disturbances, often triggered by severe hypertension, immunosuppressive drugs, or autoimmune disorders. Neuroimaging typically reveals vasogenic edema in the occipital and parietal lobes. This review outlines the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies for PRES, emphasizing prompt recognition and treatment of underlying causes to ensure reversibility. While most patients recover fully, atypical cases may lead to severe complications. The article also highlights controversies in diagnosis and the need for standardized criteria to guide future research and clinical practice.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an acute or subacute neurologic condition characterized by headache, encephalopathy, seizures, and visual disturbances, often triggered by severe hypertension, immunosuppressive drugs, or autoimmune disorders. Neuroimaging typically reveals vasogenic edema in the occipital and parietal lobes. This review outlines the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies for PRES, emphasizing prompt recognition and treatment of underlying causes to ensure reversibility. While most patients recover fully, atypical cases may lead to severe complications. The article also highlights controversies in diagnosis and the need for standardized criteria to guide future research and clinical practice.