Posterior reversible encephalopathy in a child with Langerhans cell histiocytosis following allogeneic PBSCT treatment with cyclosporine

Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is associated with a specific disorder of cerebrovascular autoregulation of multiple etiologies. This syndrome had been subsequently described in numerous medical conditions, including hypertensive encephalopathy, pre-eclampsia and the use with immunosuppressive drugs. Here, we report a child suffering from Langerhans cell histocytosis developing into PRES following immunosuppressive therapy. Symptoms and neuroimaging abnormalities were complete resolution subsequent to the withdrawal of cyclosporine. Although PRES is rarely seen among children, it should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute neurological illness, especially undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.