Video - Reye syndrome

Reye's syndrome is a rare rapidly progressive encephalopathy that usually begins shortly after recovery from an acute viral illness influenza and varicella. It mostly affects children who recently recovered from viral infections, and who used salicylate drugs such as aspirin during the infection period.

Reye's syndrome is a potentially fatal syndrome that has numerous detrimental effects on many organs, especially the brain and liver. Symptoms include sudden onset of vomiting, lethargy, confusion, seizures, and coma. Treatment of Reye's syndrome usually involves careful monitoring and supportive management. Mannitol or glycerol might be given to reduce cerebral edema, and induced hyperventilation might be initiated to help reduce fluid buildup in the brain.