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Introducing Reye's syndrome -

So rare that you probably haven’t heard of it, Reye’s syndrome is a disorder that can cause serious liver damage, brain damage, and even death.

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Post-viral development -

Reye’s syndrome mainly affects people under the age of 20, and it normally develops after a viral infection such as a cold, flu, or chicken pox.

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Link with aspirin -

We do not know exactly what causes Reye’s syndrome, but it has been linked to aspirin. That is to say that in most recorded cases of Reye’s, aspirin had been used to treat virus symptoms.

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What happens with Reye's syndrome -

It is thought that when Reye’s syndrome develops, the tiny structures within cells (called mitochondria) become damaged.

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The importance of mitochondria -

Mitochondria are particularly important for the healthy functioning of the liver. When the liver doesn’t have a proper supply of mitochondria, it starts to fail.

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Fatal swelling -

A failing liver can cause a buildup of toxic chemicals in the blood, which can cause the whole body and brain to swell. This can be fatal.

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Symptoms -

The initial symptoms of Reye’s syndrome normally begin a few days after a viral infection. The main ones are repeated vomiting, tiredness and/or lack of interest and enthusiasm, rapid breathing, and seizures.

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Symptoms -

As the condition progresses other symptoms may start to appear, including irritability and irrational or aggressive behavior, severe anxiety and confusion, and coma.

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Seeking medical attention -

Since Reye’s syndrome can be fatal, it is vital that you have your child or teenager assessed if you think they may have it.

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In an emergency -

In particular, you should call an ambulance or go to the ER if your child or teenager loses consciousness or has a fit or convulsions (rapid and irregular limb movements).

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In other cases -

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should also report to a doctor: repeated vomiting, unusual tiredness, and personality or behavioral changes.

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Mentioning aspirin -

You should also let your doctor know if your child has been taking aspirin. Although Reye’s syndrome is very unlikely, it nonetheless needs to be ruled out.

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Diagnosis -

When it comes to diagnosing Reye’s syndrome, there are other, more common conditions with similar symptoms that first need to be ruled out.

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Ruling out similar conditions -

These include meningitis (inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and certain inherited metabolic disorders.

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Tests -

In order to determine whether your child has developed one or more of these conditions, the doctor will usually order blood and urine tests in the first instance.

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Further tests -

They may also order other tests, such as a CT scan, lumbar puncture, and/or liver biopsy in order to reach a diagnosis.

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Treatment -

If your child is diagnosed with Reye’s syndrome, they will be admitted immediately to an ICU, where they will be treated for the condition.

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Vital functions -

The aim of treatment is to minimize symptoms while supporting the body’s vital functions, such as breathing and blood circulation.

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Protection against swelling -

It is also essential to protect the brain against any permanent damage that can be caused by the swelling around it.

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IV and breathing support -

In general, medicines are given intravenously and a breathing machine may be used if the child is having trouble breathing.

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Keeping a close eye -

Doctors will also monitor the child’s vital body functions, including heart rate and pulse, air flow to the lungs, blood pressure, and body temperature.

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Recovery -

Once the swelling around the brain has gone down, the other body functions should return to normal within a few days, although your child may have to stay in the hospital longer.

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Survival rate -

Thanks to developments in diagnosing and treating Reye’s syndrome, most children and teenagers who develop it will survive the experience.

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Permanent damage -

Some will make a full recovery, but others can be left with permanent damage caused by the swelling around the brain.

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Examples of permanent damage -

Long-term problems that may develop include poor attention span or memory, some loss of vision or hearing, and difficulty with performing everyday tasks.

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Long-term care -

If a child does develop long-term problems as a result of Reye’s syndrome, their doctor will devise an individualized care plan to address their needs.

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Prevention -

It should be noted that aspirin should only be given to children under the age of 16 under the recommendation of a doctor who has weighed the benefits against the risks.

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Prevention -

Children under the age of 16 should also not consume any products containing acetylsalicylic acid, acetylsalicylate, salicylic acid, salicylate, and salicylate salts.

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Products to avoid -

Parents should be aware that certain mouth ulcer and dental gels contain salicylate salts. These should not be given to children under 16.

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Available alternatives -

There are alternative products for mouth ulcers and the like; parents should discuss the most suitable option for their child with their pharmacist.

Sources: (National Today) (NHS)

See also: What is juvenile arthritis?

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