Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in a child with ulcerative colitis

Abstract

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is a clinical-neuroradiological entity with acute onset, defined as a vasogenic brain edema associated with neurotoxic impairment. We report the case of an eight-year-old boy with severe ulcerative colitis and celiac disease, who was treated with infliximab and azathioprine. On the 10th day after infliximab administration, a 45-minute unconsciousness developed with generalized convulsions and pupil miosis, accompanied by arterial hypertension. The boy was treated with anticonvulsants and antihypertensives. The state of consciousness improved ad integrum. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed symmetric areas of high-intensity signal involving occipital and fronto-parietal lobes. Lumbar puncture was negative. Repeat MRI, seven days from the onset, showed resolution of the previous changes. The condition was assessed as PRES that developed as a complication of treatment (infliximab, azathioprine) in a patient with active ulcerative colitis. The case indicates a possible risk of developing PRES in patients with uncompensated inflammatory bowel disease, receiving immunosuppressive and/or bio\xadlogical treatment and/or developing arterial hypertension