Reye’s syndrome

Reye’s syndrome A sudden and sometimes fatal disease of the brain (encephalopathy) that is accompanied by degeneration of the liver. Reye’s syndrome usually occurs in children between the ages of 4 and 12, comes after infection with chickenpox (varicella) or an influenza-type illness, and is associated with taking medications that contain aspirin. A child with Reye’s syndrome first tends to be unusually quiet, lethargic (stuporous), and sleepy. Vomiting may occur. In the second stage, the lethargy deepens, and the child becomes confused, combative, and delirious. This stage is followed by decreasing consciousness, coma, seizures, and eventually death. Early diagnosis and control of the increased intracranial pressure can prevent death or brain damage. Preventing Reye’s syndrome is the reason why physicians no longer recommend giving children aspirin for fever or for any other reason.