Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in chronic alcoholism with acute psychiatric symptoms.
OBJECTIVE
To highlight the association between posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and chronic alcoholism.


METHODS
We present a case report, a review of the literature and a discussion.


RESULTS
We report on the case of a 51-year-old man with chronic alcoholism, who suddenly developed visual disturbance and confusion. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on admission demonstrated abnormal findings. However, clinical symptoms and imaging promptly improved, indicating the diagnosis of PRES.


CONCLUSIONS
PRES should be considered when making a diagnosis for disturbed consciousness in alcoholic patients.
Kimura
Ryo
R
Department of Psychiatry, Osaka General Medical Center, Osaka 558-8558, Japan. kimura@psy.med.osaka-u.ac.jp
Yanagida
Makoto
M
Kugo
Aki
A
Taguchi
Satoki
S
Matsunaga
Hidenori
H
D000208:Acute Disease; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology; D001766:Blindness / Q000150:complications; D006212:Hallucinations / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D054038:Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000150:complications