pediatrics
Reye Syndrome
Key Points
Reye syndrome is a rare form of acute encephalopathy and hepatic dysfunction that occurs almost exclusively in children < 18 years old, typically occurring after viral infection, especially varicella or influenza A or B (particularly with salicylate use). Diagnosis is by exclusion of similarly manifesting infectious, toxic, and metabolic disorders; liver biopsy may help confirm it. Treatment is supportive, particularly with measures to lower increased intracranial pressure. 