What is Reye’s Syndrome
Reye’s Syndrome is a rare, life-threatening condition that can affect children, teens, and adults without warning. It impacts all organs, particularly the liver and brain, and can lead to severe complications. Although the exact cause is unknown, research has established a link between Reye’s Syndrome and the use of aspirin and other salicylate-containing medications, including over the counter and topical products.
This condition typically follows a viral infection, such as influenza, the common cold, or chickenpox, and is not contagious. It is often mistaken for conditions such as encephalitis, meningitis, diabetes, drug overdose, poisoning, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or even psychiatric illness.
Reye’s Syndrome is most seen in the winter months, particularly from January to March, when flu season is at its peak. (Though it is important to understate it is possible at any point in the calendar year.) It often arises during the recovery phase of a viral illness.
The disease is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver and increased pressure in the brain. Without prompt diagnosis and treatment, Reye’s Syndrome can lead to death, sometimes within hours or days. Early intervention offers the best chance of recovery, while delays in diagnosis significantly decrease the chances of survival. Early detection is critical for improving outcomes.
Stages Of Symptoms
- Persistent Vomiting
- Signs of Brain Dysfunction:
- listlessness
- loss of pep/energy
- drowsiness
- Personality changes:
- Irritability
- Aggressive Behavior
- Disorientation:
- Confusion
- Irrational behavior
- Combative
- Delirium
- Convulsions
- Coma
Reye’s Syndrome symptoms in infants may not follow a typical pattern. For instance, vomiting
may be replaced with diarrhea, and irregular breathing patterns may occur.
- Diarrhea (instead of vomiting)
- Respiratory issues, such as hyperventilation, apneic episodes, seizures, or hypoglycemia
- Elevated SGOT-SGPT levels (usually 200 or more units), without jaundice
- Unexpected vomiting following a viral illness, such as influenza or chickenpox (usually
without diarrhea) - Elevated SGOT-SGPT levels (usually 200 or more units) without jaundice
- Disturbed brain function, which may include:
- Lethargy
- Staring
- Stupor
- Agitated delirium
- Screaming
- Drug-like behavior
- Extensor spasms
- Decerebrate rigidity
- Symptoms resembling aspirin poisoning
- Coma
- When vomiting occurs after a viral illness, consider Reye’s Syndrome.
- Emergency testing: SGOT-SGPT (SAT-ACT), elevated blood NH3, hypoglycemia, and
hepatomegaly may be present.
- Meningitis
- Encephalitis
- Diabetes
- Drug overdose
- Sudden Infant Death
- Syndrome (SIDS)
- Toxic ingestion
- Head trauma
- Renal or hepatic failure
- Poisoning
Reye’s Syndrome is frequently misdiagnosed as one of these conditions. If you suspect Reye’s,
it’s important to encourage the doctor to carefully rule it out.
It is VITAL to consult with a teaching hospital or children’s hospital for specialized care.
