Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome PRES Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology in Different south Asian Population (P4.013)

Objective: To study PRES clinical manifestations, and epidemiology in south Asian population in Qatar. Background: PRES patients present with rapid onset of symptoms including headache, seizures, altered sensorium, visual disturbance and vasogenic edema in MRI first described in 1996, usually but not always associated with uncontrolled BP. Seizures are the most common presentation. The MRI findings usually resolve within days or weeks. Relationship between ethnic backgrounds and clinical manifestations is not well known. International research refers south Asian region as an ethnical area, they represent the largest ethnic group in Qatar. Design/Methods: Retrospective study of 42 south Asian patients diagnosed with PRES in tertiary center in Qatar from 2010 to 2017. We recorded demographics, risk factors, clinical presentation and MRI findings. Results: The most common presentation was seizures occurring in 71% of patients, followed by altered mental status. The mean age was 37 ± 10 years. In addition 64% of the patients with seizures had only moderately elevated blood pressure (BP), systolic of 150–170 mmHg and diastolic 90–100 mmHg, without other underlying diseases. 66% with no known hypertension and only 5 patients had an underlying etiology (2 females with eclampsia, 2 on immunosuppressants following solid organ transplant and one with connective tissue disorder). Conclusions: Uncontrolled BP is a known risk factor for PRES and also for unprovoked seizures. Our study suggests a strong association between moderately elevated BP and PRES in south Asian populations. In addition, southern Asians tend to present with PRES at a younger age compared to other ethnic groups. Further epidemiologic studies are needed to confirm or refute these associations. Disclosure: Dr. Ibrahim has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mohamed has nothing to disclose. Dr. Deleu has nothing to disclose. Dr. Melikyan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mesraoua has nothing to disclose. Dr. Murr has nothing to disclose.