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Reye's syndrome is a noncontiguous deadly disease that can strike anyone unexpectedly. This disease is often unrecognized and misdiagnosed which can lead to complications and/or death. Although there is no cure for Reye's syndrome, there are many treatment options available to prevent permanent damage and death.
Key Points About Reye's Syndrome:
Although primarily a children's disease, Reye's syndrome can occur at any age. It usually occurs after a viral infection.
Aspirin or other salicylate-containing products (see chart below) are not the cause of Reye's syndrome; however, such products can greatly INCREASE the risk of developing Reye's syndrome. Aspirin and salicylate-containing products should be avoided in persons under the age of 19 during fever- causing illnesses.
A patient diagnosed with Reye's syndrome must be hospitalized and
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treated immediately to prevent permanent damage and death.
Certain medications such anti-nausea medications can mask the symptoms of Reye's syndrome. Avoid giving anti-nausea medications to your child.
While the exact cause of Reye's syndrome is unknown, it is almost always associated with a viral illness such as the flu or chicken pox. Symptoms typically occur when a person is just beginning to recover from a viral illness. Abnormal deposits of fat accumulate in the liver and other organs; however, the most serious side effect of Reye's syndrome is an increase of pressure in the brain. If Reye's syndrome is not treated immediately, death can occur within a few days.
There are two stages of Reye's syndrome that include various symptoms. It is important to know that some patients may not display all the symptoms and other patients may not dis
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play symptoms in the typical order. To officially determine a diagnosis of Reye's syndrome, two liver function tests (SGOT and SGPT) should be done immediately by a physician. Below is a chart of symptoms observed during Reye's syndrome.
Hospital treatment of Reye's syndrome aims to reduce pressure on the brain. Efforts are also made to maintain proper nutrient and oxygen supplementation to the brain and other bodily organs. There is a 90% chance of recovery when Reye's syndrome is treated during its earliest stages.
Remember: Reye's syndrome is ALWAYS a medical emergency.
For more information please visit: www.reyessyndrome.org or www.ninds.nih.gov. As always, feel free to contact your local pharmacist or physician if you have any questions.
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