### What is Reye's Syndrome? Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain. It most commonly affects children and teenagers who are recovering from a viral infection, such as the flu or chickenpox. ### Causes The exact cause of Reye's syndrome is not fully understood, but it has been strongly linked to the use of aspirin or other salicylates in children and teenagers recovering from viral infections. Because of this, doctors recommend avoiding aspirin in these age groups during such times. ### Symptoms Symptoms of Reye's syndrome typically appear 3 to 5 days after the onset of a viral infection. In children under 2 years old, early symptoms may include diarrhea and rapid breathing. In older children and teenagers, early symptoms may include persistent vomiting and unusual sleepiness. As the condition progresses, symptoms can become more severe and may include confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. ### Diagnosis There is no specific test for Reye's syndrome. Doctors usually perform urine and blood tests and may also screen for fatty acid disorders. Other diagnostic tests may include liver biopsies and spinal taps. ### Treatment There is no cure for Reye's syndrome, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications, such as brain swelling. This may involve intravenous fluids, medications to reduce swelling, and close monitoring in a hospital setting. ### Prognosis With early diagnosis and treatment, the survival rate for Reye's syndrome has improved significantly. The death rate has dropped from around 50% to less than 20%. Most children and teenagers who receive prompt treatment recover completely, although the extent of recovery can depend on the severity of brain swelling.