How Is Reye's Syndrome Diagnosed?

There is no specific test for Reye's Syndrome, one of the factors that makes this condition so dangerous. Many of its symptoms are also the symptoms of other conditions, so doctors will usually simply include it as a possible diagnosis for any child who shows up at the hospital with vomiting and mental changes. The process of diagnosing will be more dependent on ruling out other conditions as opposed to testing for Reye's. Blood tests are performed, as well as CT or MRI scans of the head. Spinal taps and liver biopsies may be performed also.

Treatment of Reye's Syndrome

Just as there is no specific diagnostic test for Reye's Syndrome, there is no specific treatment. Doctors will treat the symptoms of the syndrome and monitor brain pressure and blood gas and pH levels. Steroids are administered in order to reduce brain swelling. IV fluids are given to keep the child hydrated and increase electrolyte and glucose levels in the body. 

The child may need to be intubated and placed on a breathing machine if he slips into a deep coma. Healthcare providers will perform neurological assessments frequently and much care is taken to keep the child's temperature regulated.

What is the Prognosis for Children with Reye's Syndrome?

The chance of survival for a child with Reye's Syndrome is largely dependent on the severity of the coma.  The deeper the coma, the more likely that serious and permanent brain damage was suffered.  

Still, for those babies and children who are diagnosed with the condition, Reye's Syndrome is extremely serious. Reye's has 6 stages of progression, from 0 to 5. A total of 18 percent of children who are admitted to the hospital at stage 0 will die, while of those admitted at stage 5, 90 percent do not survive. If treatment is not sought until after stage 3, permanent and serious brain damage is expected. It is of dire importance to seek treatment as early as possible.  If treatment begins while the syndrome is in stages 0 to 2, most children will make a full recovery.

Read More: Baby Aspirin Benefits and Risks During Pregnancy

Put the Aspirin Down

Yes, Reye's is rare, but the danger is real. Parents should keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet with age-appropriate medications for their children. For children between the ages of 6 months and 12 years old, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are recommended. Not giving any fever-reducing medication is preferred over giving Aspirin, and even "old wives' tricks" like cold and wet cloths can help bring a fever down. Unless you need it yourself for a specific reason, it is best for parents not to keep Aspirin at home at all.

Children are going to get sick; any parent knows this fact.  But vaccinations against chicken pox (the varicella-zoster immunization) and the annual influenza immunization are available and should be seriously considered. Not contracting those two illnesses isn't a guarantee against Reye's since it can occur after any viral infection, but those are the two main illnesses that have lead to Reye's Syndrome statistically.

Most importantly, parents should remain alert to any mental changes in their children in the days following a viral infection. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment of Reye's Syndrome increase a child's chances of making a full recovery.  Contact your child's pediatrician or your family medicine practicitioner if you have any suspicions or concerns.