A Grave Outcome of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in a Patient Receiving Avastin (Bevacizumab) for Metastatic High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer

Abstract

A 45-year-old female developed neurological symptoms and elevated diastolic blood pressure while on bevacizumab (Avastin) and gemcitabine for recurrent carboplatin-resistant high-grade serous ovarian cancer. A brain MRI diagnosed our patient with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. We are discussing her presenting symptoms in this paper as well as the management and the outcome. We emphasize the importance of keeping this rare but very serious complication in all patients receiving bevacizumab.

Keywords

• Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
• Bevacizumab