Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurotoxic encephalopathic state, manifesting clinical symptoms of headache, altered consciousness, visual disturbances, and seizures. Although several diseases have been identified as causative of PRES, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Song
et al
recently published “Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) in a patient with metastatic breast cancer: A case report“ in the
World Journal of Clinical Cases
, highlighting and discussing the role of hypercalcemia in PRES as related to uncontrolled hypertension. To build upon this case description, we provide further insight into the possible underlying mechanisms of PRES through this commentary.