General Information About Reye's Syndrome
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a very dangerous, rare syndrome that occurs during childhood when the brain rapidly swells (edema) and the liver fails due to toxic fatty degeneration suddenly during the recovery phase of a viral illness.
The biggest trigger of the disease is mistakenly giving Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or medications containing aspirin to a child with a fever (especially during flu/influenza and chickenpox).
Very severe, unstoppable vomiting that begins suddenly just as the infection is about to pass. The vomiting is followed by excessive sleepiness, aggression, delirium, seizures, and a rapid descent into a coma.
Aspirin must NEVER be given to children under 16 years of age to reduce fever. Instead, safe syrups/pills containing paracetamol or ibuprofen recommended by a doctor should be used.
Very high levels of liver enzymes (AST/ALT) and ammonia in blood tests, along with an extreme drop in blood sugar, establish the diagnosis. An MRI or CT scan is taken to check for brain damage.
It is a medical emergency. The patient must be admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit immediately. Treatment is entirely supportive; IV fluids (mannitol) are administered to lower the intracranial pressure crushing the brain, blood products are given to protect the liver, and ventilator support is provided if necessary.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
