# Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in an Eclamptic Adolescent: A Case Report

**Authors:** Rachel Alef, Amal Akhtar, Maya Barrant, Andrew Carilli, Renee Alexis

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.85287 · Cureus · 2025-06-03

## TL;DR

A 13-year-old girl developed a rare neurological condition called PRES after experiencing severe pregnancy-related complications, and it was successfully treated with timely medical intervention.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the rare occurrence of PRES in adolescents and emphasizes the importance of early recognition and treatment.

## Key findings

- PRES was likely triggered by extreme hypertensive stress in an adolescent with eclampsia and HELLP syndrome.
- Prompt treatment with antihypertensive and anti-seizure medications led to a rapid improvement in the patient's condition.
- Early recognition of PRES in adolescents is crucial to prevent long-term complications.

## Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurological condition with diverse etiologies, characterized by transient changes in brain imaging and patient behavior. In this case report, a 13-year-old patient in labor developed eclampsia; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome; and ultimately, PRES. PRES is relatively uncommon in adolescents and was likely triggered by the extreme hypertensive stress experienced by this patient. Prompt identification and treatment with antihypertensive and anti-seizure medications led to a relatively rapid resolution of the patient’s postictal, minimally responsive state. Early recognition and management of PRES, particularly in adolescents, are crucial to reducing the risk of long-term complications. Although the long-term outcomes of PRES are not well understood, further research is needed to explore its potential impacts, especially in adolescent populations.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** eclampsia (MONDO:0001754), HELLP syndrome (MONDO:0008585)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** seizure medications (MESH:D012640), hemolysis (MESH:D006461), neurological condition (MESH:D019636), HELLP) syndrome (MESH:D017359), PRES (MESH:D054038), labor (MESH:D048949), eclampsia (MESH:D004461), hypertensive (MESH:D006973)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

16 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12227137/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12227137