Reyesyndroom

Reyesyndroom is a term used in some medical texts to refer to what is more commonly known as Reye’s syndrome. It is a rare, acute disorder that primarily affects children and, less commonly, young adolescents. The condition typically follows a viral illness such as influenza or varicella and is strongly associated with the use of salicylates (aspirin or aspirin-containing medications) during that illness. Reyesyndroom presents with rapid onset of vomiting, confusion, and altered consciousness, which may progress to seizures, coma, and life-threatening brain swelling. Concurrent liver dysfunction is a hallmark, with elevated liver enzymes, hyperammonemia, hypoglycemia, and coagulation abnormalities.

Pathophysiology is characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction leading to impaired fatty acid oxidation and the development of microvesicular fatty changes in the liver, accompanied by cerebral edema. The exact cause is not fully understood, but the combination of a recent viral illness and salicylate exposure is a key risk factor.

Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion in the appropriate context, supported by laboratory findings showing hepatic injury and metabolic disturbances, and by imaging and exclusion of other causes of encephalopathy. Management requires prompt hospitalization, intensive supportive care, control of cerebral edema, correction of metabolic derangements, and avoidance of salicylates. There is no specific antidote.

Prognosis varies; outcomes depend on the severity of encephalopathy and liver involvement. Prevention focuses on avoiding salicylates in children with viral infections. The condition is historically linked to the work of Reye and colleagues, and public health warnings in the late 20th century reduced its incidence.