Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) (also known as hypertensive encephalopathy) is a neurotoxic state that occurs secondary to the inability of posterior circulation to auto-regulate in response to acute changes in blood pressure. Hyperperfusion with resultant disruption of the blood brain barrier results in vasogenic oedema, but no infarction, most commonly in the parieto-occipital regions.
It should not be confused with chronic hypertensive encephalopathy (aka hypertensive microangiopathy) which results in microhemorrhages in the basal ganglia, pons and cerebellum.
Learn more at http://radiopaedia.org/articles/posterior-reversible-encephalopathy-syndrome-1
Filed under: Radiology | Tagged: MRI, PRES, radiology | Leave a comment »
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