Postpartum focal neurologic deficits: posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome.
The postpartum patient who presents with focal neurologic deficits presents a wide range of diagnostic possibilities. We report the case of a previously healthy woman who presented 7 days postpartum with a focal deficit and who was ultimately diagnosed with eclampsia and posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PLES). The hallmark of this entity is reversible parieto-occipital white matter edema as seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Advanced MRI techniques, such as echo-planar diffusion-weighted images and apparent diffusion coefficient maps, suggest cerebral artery dilatation as the underlying mechanism. Laboratory findings and computed tomography (CT) scans are typically unremarkable. PLES has a favorable prognosis if treated promptly and appropriately.
Pizon
Anthony F
AF
Department of Medical Toxicology, Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, 925 East McDowell Road 2nd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA.
Wolfson
Allan B
AB
D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004461:Eclampsia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D004635:Emergency Medicine / Q000379:methods; D004660:Encephalitis / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020343:Hypertensive Encephalopathy / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D008581:Meningitis / Q000175:diagnosis; D011247:Pregnancy; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D012640:Seizures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents