Named after Dr. Douglas Reye who published the first scientific article with regard to this condition, Reye's syndrome has been in the center of attention for quite a number of years. Even though many researches have tried to seek clarifications with regard to the etiology of this condition, the things did not report any conclusive evidence. Thus, the exact cause for the syndrome still remains a mystery for the medical fraternity but they are capable of handling the condition much more effectively than it was earlier.

Reye's syndrome is a fatal illness unless proper supportive treatment is not initiated at the right time. Early diagnosis will not only save lives but also will relieve the patient of dreaded long term complications. The condition is though to follow subtle infections such as influenza A and B as well as infections like Vericella. But, the most striking association is with the drug 'aspirin' as it has shown to precipitate the condition in children who are recovering from viral infections or chickenpox. It is suggested that children with underlying metabolic deficiencies, especially the ones with deficient enzymes in fatty acid oxidation are more susceptible in suffering from this condition.

The symptoms of Reye's syndrome can be seen to progress through several stages and the demarcation is not always clear cut. But, the initial symptoms of the condition may be,

Severe nausea and vomiting Hyperventilation or tachypnoea Headache Lethargy Nightmares...etc.

The onset of the symptoms usually follows a period of illness which seems to be recovering. After the initial few days, the condition can rapidly worsen and gives rise to following complications which would be the result of swelling in the brain and the liver.

Confusion Fits Irritability and restlessness Weakness or paralysis Loss of consciousness or coma

Apart from the neurological signs, the Reye's syndrome can also give rise to hypoglycemia which can worsen the condition and accelerate the process in which the child can go in to a comma.

The treatment of the condition is considered to be an emergency management. It should be done in the hospital with appropriate monitoring devices. As the condition is self limiting and would resolve in 6-7 days, the principle of management would be to avoid permanent brain damage as well as fatal outcomes.

In order to achieve this, the following treatment options can be used,

1. Diuretics

These drugs will promote expulsion of excessive fluid from the circulation and has shown to reduce the cerebral edema of these patients.

2. Anti convulsive drugs

One of the dreaded complications which can deteriorate the condition would be fits and these drugs will prevent the occurrence of such fits and thus the possible complications.

3. Improving clotting mechanisms

The disruption to the liver function can be manifested as bleeding and this would lead to irreversible damage if occurred in vital organs. Thus, external means of correcting these cascades would be needed in the form of platelets, plasma as well as vitamin K.

4. Intravenous fluids

These are required in order to maintain the blood sugar levels as well as the electrolyte levels as these markers can heavily derange in the acute phase of the illness.

5. Artificial ventilation

This could be necessary at times in order to maintain adequacy of breathing as well as to keep the brain functioning to a minimal level.

6. Treat vomiting

Drugs such as Ondasteron can be used in the treatment of vomiting associated with Reye's syndrome.

The condition needs continuous monitoring and investigations in order to maintain the bodily functions till such time it will be able to recover from the acute phase of the disease.

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