Case of the Month #41 Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)

Published 20/07/2023

What is the aetiology of PRES?

  • The pathogenic hallmarks are failure of cerebral autoregulation and the development of vasogenic oedema. 

  • The posterior regions of the brain may be more susceptible to failed autoregulation due to relatively less sympathetic innervation. 

  • Endothelial damage with blood–brain barrier disruption lead to fluid and protein transudation.   

  • Focal vasoconstriction may cause cerebral infarcts. [1, 3, 5]