Posterior leukoencephalopathy following repair of an ileocecal anastomosis breakdown: a case report and review of the literature

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome refers to a constellation of neurologic symptoms related to temporary white matter changes. The disease typically presents in the context of an abrupt and drastic elevation in blood...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Kasper Ekkehard M, Colen Rivka R, Zinn Pascal O, Chen Clark C
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2011-01-01
Series:Journal of Medical Case Reports
Online Access:http://www.jmedicalcasereports.com/content/5/1/20
Description
Summary:<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome refers to a constellation of neurologic symptoms related to temporary white matter changes. The disease typically presents in the context of an abrupt and drastic elevation in blood pressure (>180/110 mmHg). We report an unusual case of posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome in a post-operative setting, with a blood pressure parameter generally tolerated by most patients.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>We report the case of a 22-year-old Caucasian man who suffered acute onset visual acuity loss four days after an ileocecal anastomosis. A head magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed findings typically associated with posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome. His symptoms developed in the context of blood pressure parameters that are typically well tolerated in a post-operative setting (150-160/80-90 mmHg). He did not have a history of renal failure or immunosuppression. His symptoms resolved with aggressive blood pressure management.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome can occur in a post-operative setting with blood pressure parameters typically well-tolerated in most post-surgical patients. Timely diagnosis and treatment will minimize the risk of permanent neurologic injury.</p>
ISSN:1752-1947