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01-02-2018 | Hypertension and Emergency Medicine (T Rainer and P Levy, Section Editors)

New Developments in Hypertensive Encephalopathy

Authors: Joseph B. Miller, Kushak Suchdev, Namita Jayaprakash, Daniel Hrabec, Aditya Sood, Snigdha Sharma, Phillip D. Levy

Published in: Current Hypertension Reports | Issue 2/2018

Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review summarizes the latest science on hypertensive encephalopathy and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). We review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of these overlapping syndromes and discuss best practices for diagnosis and management.

Recent Findings

Diagnosis of hypertensive encephalopathy largely relies on exclusion of other neurological emergencies. We review the extensive causes of PRES and its imaging characteristics. Management strategies have not changed substantially in the past decade, though newer calcium channel blockers simplify the approach to blood pressure reduction. While this alone may be sufficient for treatment of hypertensive encephalopathy in most cases, management of PRES also depends on modification of other precipitating factors.

Summary

Hypertensive encephalopathy and PRES are overlapping disorders for which intensive blood pressure lowering is critical. Further research is indicated to both in diagnosis and additional management strategies for these critical conditions.

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Title: New Developments in Hypertensive Encephalopathy
Authors: Joseph B. Miller
Kushak Suchdev
Namita Jayaprakash
Daniel Hrabec
Aditya Sood
Snigdha Sharma
Phillip D. Levy
Publication date: 01-02-2018
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Current Hypertension Reports / Issue 2/2018
Print ISSN: 1522-6417
Electronic ISSN: 1534-3111
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11906-018-0813-y

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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