Reye's syndrome

Reye's syndrome


Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious disease that can damage the brain and liver, occurs most commonly in children
Recover from a viral infection.

Named after Australian pathologist R. Douglas Reye, who first reported it in 1963 as an independent syndrome, Reye's syndrome
not yet well understood. Studies have examined the use of aspirin (also called salicylates) connected or aspirin-containing
Medication during viral disease as a factor in the development of Reye's syndrome.

Cases have been discovered since this link is dropped and started giving doctors advise against aspirin
Children and young people, especially during viral diseases.

About Reye's syndrome
Reye's syndrome mainly affects children 4-14 years old, and is most common in viral diseases
Epidemic, such as during the winter months or after an outbreak of chickenpox or influenza B.

Duration varies with the severity of disease, may be the range from mild and self-limiting, rarely, death within
Hours. Although severity varies, Reye's syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that should be treated as
medical emergency.

Early detection and treatment are crucial - the chances of a successful recovery are greater if Reye's syndrome is
treated in its earliest stages.

Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of Reye's syndrome are almost always preceded by a viral illness, such as an upper respiratory tract
Infection (a cold, flu, etc.), a diarrheal illness or chickenpox. Many cases are mild and may even go undetected;
others can be severe and require aggressive care.

Reye's syndrome can occur from 1 day to 2 weeks after a viral infection. The viral diseases that cause are
contagious, but not the syndrome itself.

Symptoms are:

frequent vomiting
Lethargy or drowsiness
in infants, diarrhea and rapid breathing
Irritability or aggressive behavior
In the later stages, a child may exhibit irrational behavior, confusion, severe muscle weakness, cramps and loss
Awareness. There is usually no fever.

Other symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty hearing, and abnormal speech.

Reye's syndrome is now very rare: only a few cases per year reported in the United States. It should be noted,
However, in a child with frequent vomiting or a change in mental status or behavior - especially if, in the
a recent viral illness.

Prevention
Aspirin and other drugs from the salicylate family should never be used in the treatment of chicken pox, influenza, and
other viral diseases. Many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines contain salicylates, so be sure to read the labels and talk
Your doctor if you are not sure whether a drug is safe for your child.

Generally should not be used for children or teenagers except on the advice of a physician for certain aspirin (salicylates)
Conditions.

Treatment
Children with Reye's syndrome are usually treated in a hospital, those who are seriously ill, will be maintained in the
Intensive care unit (ICU).

Treatment is supportive, as there is no cure. The clinical care team focused on the fact that a child with Reye's syndrome
stays hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance, and monitors food intake and cardiovascular status. Opportunities
Recovery are greatest when that key systems are as balanced as possible. Tests that must be done, including blood tests
Monitor electrolytes and liver function and an imaging study of the brain (CAT scan or MRI).

Mechanical ventilation (a breathing machine or respirator) may be necessary if breathing is slow or ineffective.
Intracranial pressure (pressure of the fluid within the brain), and the blood pressure can be monitored. Small amounts of
Given insulin, glucose metabolism, corticosteroids to reduce brain swelling, and increase diuretics to get rid of are
excess liquid. If seizures occur, they are treated with medication.

The prognosis for children with Reye's syndrome has improved. Thanks to earlier diagnosis and better treatment, the
Survival rate increased to about 80%. The earlier the disease is detected the better the chances for survival. Children
Progress that can show up in the late stages of the syndrome suffer brain damage and disability.

When to call the doctor
If your child is vomiting, behavioral changes or extreme sleepiness, especially after a viral illness such as the flu
or a cold, you turn to your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.

Of course, many children with viruses have some of these symptoms, and most will not Reye's syndrome. Nevertheless
Early detection is the key to successful treatment of Reye's syndrome.