Reversible posterior encephalopathy syndrome associated with late onset postpartum eclampsia: A case report

Bo,Qi‑Yu; Zhao,Xiu‑He; Yang,Xue; Wang,Sheng‑Jun

doi:10.3892/etm.2016.3533

Reversible posterior encephalopathy syndrome associated with late onset postpartum eclampsia: A case report

Authors:
- Qi‑Yu Bo
- Xiu‑He Zhao
- Xue Yang
- Sheng‑Jun Wang
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Affiliations: Department of Operating Room, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
Published online on: July 20, 2016 https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2016.3533
Pages: 1885-1888

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Abstract

Late onset postpartum eclampsia (LPE) is defined by its onset at >48 h after delivery. Reversible posterior encephalopathy syndrome (RPES) associated with LPE is uncommon, with the majority of RPES cases having a late postpartum onset within 4 weeks after childbirth. The present study reported the case of a 15‑year old female presenting with convulsions that began 5 weeks after delivery. A magnetic resonance imaging scan of the brain revealed multiple lesions in the cortex, subcortical region and deep white matter of the bilateral cerebellum, and occipital, frontal and parietal lobes. The clinical manifestations and radiological abnormalities were readily resolved subsequent to antihypertension and anticonvulsion treatment. In conclusion, the present rare case indicates that LPE should be considered as a potential diagnosis even at 4 weeks after delivery. Furthermore, clinicians should familiarize with the reversible radioimaging features of RPES, since early recognition and adequate treatment are important to the outcome of patients.

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