Reye’s Syndrome

Diagnosis

There isn’t a singular test designed specifically for diagnosing Reye’s syndrome. Typically, screening commences with blood and urine analyses, which may extend to include assessments for fatty acid oxidation disorders and other related conditions.

Occasionally, additional tests become necessary to investigate potential alternative causes of liver or neurological issues. For instance:

• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap). Identifying or ruling out other disorders with comparable symptoms can be aided by a spinal tap. Meningitis, an infection affecting the lining around the brain and spinal cord, can be diagnosed through a spinal tap. Alternatively, it can aid in the diagnosis of encephalitis, an infection or inflammation of the brain.
  A spinal tap involves inserting a needle between two bones in the lower back. A tiny portion of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord is taken out and submitted for examination to a laboratory.
• Biopsy of the liver. A liver biopsy can assist in determining or ruling out potential liver-related illnesses. An accumulation of fat in the liver cells can be seen in a liver biopsy from a patient with Reye’s syndrome.
  A needle is introduced into the liver during a liver biopsy, passing through the skin on the upper right side of the abdomen. A tiny sample of liver tissue is taken out and sent for examination to a laboratory.
• A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scan. Behavior changes or decreased alertness may have other causes that can be found or ruled out with the use of a head CT or MRI scan. These tests may reveal brain swelling, which could be brought on by Reye’s disease.
  A CT scan creates a detailed image of the brain by combining many X-rays obtained at various angles. An MRI scan creates images of the brain using radio waves and a strong magnetic field instead of X-rays.

Treatment

Treatment for Reye’s syndrome typically occurs in a hospital setting, with severe cases potentially requiring intensive care in the ICU. Medical staff closely monitor vital signs such as blood pressure. Treatment may include:

• Fluids given Intravenously (IV). Via an IV line, sugar, commonly known as glucose, and an electrolyte solution may be administered.
• Diuretics. The fluid pressure surrounding the brain may be reduced with the use of these medications. Diuretics cause more fluid to be lost through urination.
• Bleeding prevention medications. Treatment for liver-related bleeding may include platelets, plasma, and vitamin K.
• Cooling blankets. These blankets aid in preserving a healthy internal body temperature.

If your child is experiencing difficulty breathing, a ventilator, which is a machine for assisting with breathing, can be used to provide support.