Reyes syndrome is a serious but rare condition. It causes a build up of fat and swelling in most organs. Reyes is most harmful to the liver and and brain.
It tends to occur during recovery from a viral infection. Early treatment is important for a recovery.
Reyes occurs most often in children aged 2-16 years but can occur in anyone. Factors that may increase the risk of Reyes syndrome include:
Symptoms usually occur after a viral illness and may include:
Later symptoms may progress to:
Call a doctor immediately if you or your child has any of these symptoms, especially after a viral infection.
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Blood tests will be done to evaluate the liver function. To eliminate possibility of other illnesses or disease, your doctor may order tests such as:
Spinal Tap–Lumbar Puncture Method
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Early diagnosis and treatment are important for a successful recovery.
Treatment is focused on protecting the brain and other organs from damage. Options include:
Medications may help to:
Glucose and electrolytes may also be given through IV.
The brain, heart, and lungs will be carefully monitored. This will help the doctor begin supportive treatments as soon as possible.
As the condition progresses more care may be needed. Some advanced care options include:
The exact cause of Reyes is not known but the following may decrease the risk of Reyes syndrome:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Pediatrics
http://www.healthychildren.org/
National Reye's Syndrome Foundation
http://www.reyessyndrome.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
About Kids Health
http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca
Alberta Children's Services
http://www.child.alberta.ca/
References:
Kleigman RM, Jensen HB, Behrman RE, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.
Reye Syndrome. American Liver Foundation website. Available at: http://www.liverfoundation.org/abouttheliver/info/reye/ . Accessed February 28, 2013.
Reyes Syndrome. National Institute of Neurological Disorder and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/reyes_syndrome/reyes_syndrome.htm . Accessed February 28, 2013.
What is Reyes Syndrome? National Reyes Syndrome website. Available at: http://reyessyndrome.org/what.html . Accessed February 28, 2013.
Last reviewed November 2012 by Michael Woods, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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