The early symptoms of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) can be diverse, but commonly include visual changes, headache, seizures, and altered awareness.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is a neurological condition characterized by specific symptoms and brain imaging findings. Based on the provided information, the key clinical presentations that may manifest early in PRES are:
Common Early Symptoms of PRES
According to the reference, PRES may present with several diverse clinical symptoms. These include:
- Visual disturbance: This can manifest in various ways, such as blurred vision, partial or complete vision loss, or seeing flashing lights.
- Headache: Often described as severe, headaches are a frequent symptom associated with the onset of PRES.
- Seizures: Seizures are a notable symptom and can range from focal (affecting a specific part of the brain) to generalized (affecting both sides).
- Impaired consciousness: Changes in a person's level of awareness, including confusion, drowsiness, or even coma, can be an early indicator.
These symptoms reflect the impact of the condition on the brain, which, as the reference also notes, typically involves oedema (swelling) in the posterior subcortical regions visible on MRI.
To summarize the key early symptoms mentioned:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Visual Disturbance | Changes in vision (blurring, loss) |
| Headache | Often severe head pain |
| Seizures | Abnormal electrical activity in the brain |
| Impaired Consciousness | Altered awareness, confusion, drowsiness |
Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of PRES.
