Hypertensive encephalopathy presenting as status epilepticus in a three year old.

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive encephalopathy is one of the few neurologic emergencies in which prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent neurological damage. This syndrome is rarely seen in children.

OBJECTIVES

To discuss the recognition of hypertensive encephalopathy as a cause of acute neurological changes in children.

CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 3-year-old boy who presented to the Emergency Department with seizures due to hypertensive encephalopathy. A review of the literature on the subject follows the case report.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertensive encephalopathy is a rare cause of acute neurological changes in children that can cause permanent damage if not recognized early. This case illustrates the importance of considering this syndrome as a potential cause of neurological symptoms, especially as neuroimaging can initially be misleading.