Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome after bilateral carotid paraganglioma resection: A case report

Cephalalgia. 2017 Jan;37(1):89-93. doi: 10.1177/0333102416629235. Epub 2016 Jul 11.

Abstract

Background Paraganglioma is a rare neuroendocrine tumour arising anywhere along the paravertebral sympathetic and parasympathetic chains. In the neck, paraganglioma may affect the carotid body (carotid body tumour). Case report We describe a 43-year-old woman who presented with a reversible vasoconstriction syndrome associated with a posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome following a surgery for a left carotid paraganglioma (with a past medical history of surgery for a right carotid paraganglioma a few months before). Conclusion A consequence of a baroreflex modification is discussed in order to explain the rare occurrence of such symptoms.

Keywords: PRES; RCVS; baroreflex; carotid body tumour; paraganglioma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Baroreflex / physiology
  • Carotid Body Tumor / complications*
  • Carotid Body Tumor / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / complications
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / surgery
  • Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome / etiology*
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / etiology*