Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in a Hospitalized Pregnant Woman with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case Report

Abstract

: During pregnancy, SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) can be complicated, and the mother and neonate's prognosis is not fully documented. We are presenting the case of a 33-week pregnant patient with confirmed COVID-19 who developed encephalopathy. During the disease and hospitalization in a critical care setting, an emergency C-section was performed with general anesthesia in the ICU due to acidosis and maternal-fetal instability. The baby boy was delivered with an APGAR score of 8, showing no obvious anomalies, and was subsequently intubated. Eight days later, brain imaging revealed posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. The mother received treatment and was discharged without further complications. At the final follow-up six months after discharge, the patient's MRI showed laminar necrosis in the two occipitoparietal cortex areas. However, she remained symptom-free and did not report any complications. We also discussed the possible reasons for these findings and their relationship to the infection.