Health Topics for Child Health and Development

UI Children's Hospital

UI Family Care Centers

Divisions Within the Department of Pediatrics

Iowa Registry for Congenital and Inherited Disorders

Reye's syndrome

Reye's syndrome is a rare illness that can be life-threatening. The illness occurs mainly in young children and usually follows a viral infection, such as the flu, chicken pox, or upper respiratory infection. It occurs most often in children between the ages of 2 and 16 years.

The illness causes:

• low blood sugar
• high levels of acid and ammonia in the blood
• buildup of fat and swelling in the liver and
• swelling of the brain

The exact cause of Reye's syndrome is unknown. It is believed that the use of aspirin and medicines containing aspirin may trigger its development in children. This is why children 18 years or younger should not be given aspirin in any form for any reason.

Symptoms for Reye's syndrome begin about a week after a viral infection and include:

• fever
• nausea and vomiting for 1 to 3 days and
• a gradual decline in mental alertness as brain swelling increases

Emergency medical care is needed when:

• drowsiness advances to loss of consciousness or coma or
• confusion, seizures, or convulsions occur

Children with Reye's syndrome must be hospitalized. The diagnosis is made by testing the blood and spinal fluid. A liver biopsy may also be needed. There is no cure for the illness.

Treatment consists of maintaining normal blood sugar levels and reducing pressure on the swollen brain. Most children completely recover in 2 to 3 months. Those who survive a serious attack may suffer brain damage.

The best way to reduce the risk of Reye's syndrome is never to give aspirin to any child 18 years or younger, unless otherwise specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Reduce fever and discomfort in sick children by using acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Medication cautions:

1. Do NOT give aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or aspirin-containing products to anyone age 18 years or younger because of the risk of a serious illness called Reye's syndrome.
2. Acetaminophen should not be taken by anyone with known liver or kidney disease. Do not drink alcohol when taking more than 1 dose of acetaminophen.
3. Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with food or milk to prevent stomach irritation. Do not give NSAIDs to anyone with asthma or increased risk of bleeding (such as, ulcer disease, following surgery, significant trauma, major dental work, if taking blood thinners [anticoagulants] or have a known bleeding disorder).

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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