Reye's Syndrome
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Overview
Reye’s Syndrome is a rare, potentially life-threatening condition that primarily affects the brain and liver. It typically occurs in children who are recovering from a viral infection, such as chickenpox or the flu. Reye’s Syndrome usually develops about a week after the viral infection starts but can also develop just a few days after. Liver complications in Reye’s Syndrome can include fatty deposits in the liver, abnormal liver function, and poor blood clotting, leading to liver failure.
Facts at a Glance
- Reye’s Syndrome is most commonly seen in children, typically between the ages of 6 to 12 years old.
- If diagnosed and treated early, most children can recover fully from Reye’s Syndrome within a few weeks without lasting problems.
- The condition is rare, but its impact on the liver and brain can be severe without prompt treatment.
The most common cause, as it significantly reduces the liver’s ability to function.
Sudden loss of liver function due to factors like viral hepatitis, drug overdose, or toxins.
High blood pressure in the liver can lead to the diversion of blood around the liver, allowing toxins to bypass detoxification.
Bleeding in the intestines can increase the amount of toxins that the liver must process.
Infections, especially bacterial infections in people with liver disease, can trigger or worsen HE.
Imbalances in sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes may also contribute to HE development.
What Are the Symptoms of Reye's Syndrome?
Reye’s Syndrome is often misdiagnosed as other conditions, such as encephalitis, meningitis, diabetes, drug overdose, poisoning, or even sudden infant death syndrome. Symptoms may include:
- Persistent or recurrent vomiting
- Listlessness or extreme fatigue
- Personality changes, such as irritability or combativeness
- Disorientation or confusion
- Delirium, convulsions, or loss of consciousness
In infants, symptoms may not follow the usual pattern, and vomiting may not always occur. The onset of symptoms is typically rapid, and they can worsen within hours.
What Causes Reye's Syndrome?
The exact cause of Reye’s Syndrome remains unclear. However, studies have shown a strong link between the use of aspirin during viral illnesses and the development of Reye’s Syndrome. Parents should consult a physician before giving their child aspirin or medications that contain aspirin, especially during a viral illness, as these may mask symptoms and trigger Reye’s Syndrome.
How is Reye's Syndrome Diagnosed?
If Reye’s Syndrome is suspected, doctors will perform blood tests to evaluate liver function and monitor for any abnormal levels of liver enzymes or other markers. Other diagnostic procedures may include:
- Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) to rule out infections such as meningitis
- Liver biopsy to assess the extent of liver damage
- Urine tests to evaluate metabolic function
How is Reye's Syndrome Treated?
Currently, there is no cure for Reye’s Syndrome. Treatment focuses on:
- Early diagnosis and protecting the brain from irreversible damage by reducing brain swelling
- Preventing complications in the lungs and managing potential cardiac arrest
- Symptomatic treatment to support the liver and brain during recovery
The goal of treatment is to stabilize the child’s condition and prevent further complications. With prompt medical care, recovery is possible, though severe cases may require specialized care.
Who is at Risk for Reye's Syndrome?
Reye’s Syndrome most often affects children between the ages of 4 and 12 but can occur at any age. It typically develops about a week after viral illnesses like influenza or chickenpox. It can also occur after other common upper respiratory infections, such as a cold.
The key risk factor for developing Reye’s Syndrome is the use of aspirin or aspirin-containing medications during a viral infection. The condition may also occur in children with an underlying metabolic condition that remains asymptomatic until triggered by a viral infection.
What is the Best Way to Prevent Reye's Syndrome?
The best way to prevent Reye’s Syndrome is to avoid giving aspirin or medications containing aspirin to children or teenagers during viral infections. If your child has the flu or chickenpox, use alternative medications such as:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Advil)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
Before giving any medication to your child, always check the label to ensure it does not contain aspirin. Never administer aspirin to anyone under 19 unless explicitly directed by a healthcare provider.
How Can Liver Transplantation Portal Help You?
At Liver Transplantation Portal, we provide expert guidance and connect families with pediatric liver specialists for proper diagnosis and management of Reye’s Syndrome. If liver failure or significant complications occur, we help families navigate treatment options, including liver transplantation, to ensure the best care for your child.
Why Choose Liver Transplantation Portal?
We are committed to supporting families in managing rare and serious liver conditions like Reye’s Syndrome. With access to expert hepatologists and liver transplant centers, Liver Transplantation Portal ensures your child receives timely, compassionate care and treatment.
Contact us today to learn more about Reye’s Syndrome and how we can assist your family in managing this complex condition.