Published Paper Details:

Reye syndrome is a rare but dangerous illness that frequently results in death. About 30-40% of cases result in death due to brainstem damage. The illness is frequently preceded by a viral infection, with a 3-5 day intermediate disease-free interval. The biological cause of Reye-like symptoms is a broad defect in mitochondrial metabolism that ultimately results in metabolic failure in the liver and other tissues. The cause of "classical" Reye syndrome is not known. Theoretically, the syndrome could result from an aberrant response to the prior viral infection. This response is determined by host genetic factors but can also be impacted by a range of external stressors. Consequently, a wide range of infections and diseases may manifest clinically as Reye-like symptoms. A wide range of toxic drugs, such as aspirin, and chemicals are examples of exogenous agents. Children with Reye syndrome frequently experience vomiting and confusion, which quickly progresses to a coma and death. This is a syndrome that often appears in the days after an aspirin-treated viral illness has healed. Reye syndrome may also occur as a result of or be predisposed to by inborn metabolic abnormalities, particularly those pertaining to fatty acid metabolism, medication reactions, and environmental contaminants. Both laboratory tests and clinical signs support this diagnosis. Misdiagnosis can occur due to inborn metabolic diseases that resemble Reye's syndrome, especially in children under three years old. Reye's syndrome-like symptoms are more likely to be caused by inborn metabolic problems as the incidence of Reye's syndrome declines.