Reye’s syndrome (RS) is primarily a children’s disease (although it can occur at any age). Some people develop Reye’s 
Syndrome as they are getting over a viral illness, such as the flu or chicken pox. The disorder commonly occurs during recovery from a viral infection, although it can also develop few days after the onset of the viral illness.The purpose of the following article is to provide advice on the current evidence linking aspirin use in children or teenagers to Reye’s Syndrome.
The Centres for Disease Control (CDC) in the United States definition is similar “a child under 18 years with an acute non-inflammatory encephalopathy (without CSF pleocytosis), characteristic liver histology or raised serum transaminases or ammonia values (≥ 3x normal) and no other explanation for the illness”. Over 20 years of study, there is still debate about the nature of the association between aspirin and Reye’s Syndrome.
Reye’s Syndrome should be suspected in anyone who vomits repeatedly, or generally presents as pernicious vomiting, listlessness, personality changes such as irritability or combativeness, disorientation or confusion, delirium, convulsions, and loss of consciousness, encephalopathy subsequently occurs, often as hyperexcitability which may progress to severe conditions. If these symptoms are present during or soon after a viral illness, medical attention should be sought immediately .Phone your doctor immediately if these symptoms develop. Voice your concern about Reye’s Syndrome.
Many later studies showed a significant association between aspirin use during the prodromal illness and the development of Reye’s Syndrome, but it should be noted that none of the studies confirm a causal link between aspirin and Reye’s Syndrome. Download full information here (source: tga.gov.au, image: fda.gov).
