Challenges of Diagnosing Pediatric Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in Resource Poor Settings: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare clinical syndrome that has been observed in different age groups, including pediatric patients. Identified triggers of PRES in both children and adults have included immunosuppressive and cytotoxic agents, organ transplantation, severe sepsis, blood transfusion, or evidence of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1). Its clinical and radiological courses have been reported as mostly benign and reversible over days to weeks. Computed tomography (CT) scans are helpful in diagnosis, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains the gold standard. Unfortunately, because of the prohibitive costs of such medical equipment, diagnosis remains a challenge in developing countries. There is a dearth of information about pediatric PRES in resource–poor settings. This narrative aims to draw attention to the possible existence of PRES in children and to identify factors responsible for the difficulty in making the diagnosis. This review will hopefully increase awareness of PRES among pediatricians in order to make early diagnosis and institute appropriate management of this condition.