Reye's syndrome is a potentially fatal disease that has numerous detrimental effects to many organs, especially the brain and liver, as well as causing a lower than usual level of blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The classic features are a rash, vomiting, and liver damage. The exact cause is unknown and, while it has been associated with aspirin consumption by children with viral illness, it also occurs in the absence of aspirin use.
The disease causes fatty liver with minimal inflammation and severe encephalopathy (with swelling of the brain). The liver may become slightly enlarged and firm, and there is a change in the appearance of the kidneys. Jaundice is not usually present.
Early diagnosis is vital; although most children recover with supportive therapy, it may lead to severe brain injury and death.
Read more about Reye's Syndrome: Signs and Symptoms, Causes, Prognosis, Differential Diagnosis, Epidemiology, History
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