| Disease
Fact Sheet Series:
What is Reye syndrome?
Reye syndrome (RS) is a rare disorder that damages many parts of the
body, especially the brain and the liver. Reye syndrome is a two-phase
illness because it is almost always associated with a previous viral
infection, such as influenza, a common cold, or chickenpox.
Who gets Reye syndrome?
Although it can occur at any age, RS is primarily a children’s
disease and most often affects children between the ages of 3-12 years
old.
What is the cause of Reye syndrome?
The cause of RS remains a mystery, but studies have found a link with the
use of aspirin during a viral illness. Researchers believe that in some
cases it is caused by an abnormal response to aspirin or related products
taken during a viral illness.
Is Reye syndrome contagious?
Reye syndrome is not contagious and does not spread from person-to-person.
How is Reye syndrome diagnosed?
The doctor may suspect a child has Reye syndrome based on the symptoms and
a history of very recent viral illness. Blood tests, including tests of
liver function, may be done. Other tests often are necessary to confirm
the diagnosis, including a biopsy
of the liver (a small piece of the liver is removed and examined) and a
lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to examine spinal fluid.
What is the treatment for RS?
While there is no cure for RS, the symptoms may be treated. A physician
may prescribe drugs to control the swelling in the brain, and intravenous
fluids to restore normal blood chemistry.
How can RS be prevented?
Although a clear link
between aspirin and Reye syndrome has not yet been proven, experts agree
that to prevent Reye syndrome, the safest approach is NEVER to give
aspirin or aspirin-containing medicines to children. Aspirin containing
products may include words like acetylsalicylate, acetylsalicylic acid,
salicylic acid and salicylate on the label. Non-aspirin medicines, such as
acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen, should be used instead.
When a child is taking aspirin, steps must be
taken to minimize the risk of acquiring a viral illness (such as influenza
and chickenpox vaccinations).
For more information, contact your
Local
Public Health Department
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Last Revised: June 21, 2011
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