Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in a child, following splenectomy under combined general and spinal anaesthesia

Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is a rare and serious condition that presents with acute neurological symptoms with characteristic changes on imaging. It can lead to substantial morbidity and mortality, but can be reversible if recognised and treated. Here, we report a case of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in a child post-splenectomy under general anaesthesia with spinal anaesthesia. As far as we are aware, this condition has not previously been described in relation to spinal anaesthesia in the paediatric population. This case demonstrates the importance of recognising blood pressure changes in children, which can be challenging due to age-, sex- and height-related centiles for blood pressure measurements. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome should be considered as a differential diagnosis for headache in a patient that has had a spinal anaesthesia.