Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome complicating cytotoxic chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies.

Abstract

Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS) is an uncommon but distinctive clinicoradiological entity comprising of headache, seizures, visual disturbance, and altered mental function, in association with posterior cerebral white matter edema. With appropriate management, RPLS is reversible in the majority of cases. Previous reported associations of RPLS include hypertension, eclampsia, renal failure, and use of immunosuppressive drugs; reports in the adult hematology setting are rare. We report two cases of adults undergoing treatment for hematological malignancies who developed RPLS, and we emphasize the importance of early recognition and institution of appropriate management in reducing the risk of development of permanent neurological disability.

• Authors: C S Tam, J Galanos, J F Seymour, A G Pitman, R J Stark, H M Prince
• Journal: American journal of hematology (Am J Hematol) Vol. 77 Issue 1 Pg. 72-6 (Sep 2004) ISSN: 0361-8609 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15307110 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Chemical References

• Antineoplastic Agents

Topics

• Aged
• Antineoplastic Agents (adverse effects)
• Edema
• Fatal Outcome
• Hematologic Neoplasms (complications, drug therapy)
• Humans
• Hypertension (drug therapy)
• Hypertensive Encephalopathy (chemically induced)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Male
• Middle Aged