Reye Syndrome: Treatment Overview

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Treatment Overview

If your child has symptoms of Reye syndrome, seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment helps to prevent serious complications and gives your child a better chance at a full recovery.

If caught early, most children with Reye syndrome recover and do not have any lasting problems. But others may develop serious complications, such as brain damage, or even die if the disease is severe.

Treatment is designed to stop brain and liver damage and prevent complications. Although Reye syndrome can range from mild to very serious, all children with it need to be hospitalized, usually in an intensive care unit. During hospitalization, a child:

• May be given fluids through a vein (no fluids by mouth) for several days.
• Will have his or her blood pressure, temperature, and pulse (vital signs) monitored very closely.
• May have his or her kidney function checked by having a tube (catheter) placed in the bladder to drain urine into a collection bag.
• Will have blood samples taken frequently to measure the amount of sugar (glucose) and other chemicals in his or her blood.
• Will be given medicines to reduce brain swelling.

If a child becomes seriously ill or is in a coma, treatment will include:

• Monitoring pressure inside the head to help prevent brain damage.
• Using a respirator if the child is having severe difficulty breathing.

Being hospitalized for Reye syndrome can be a frightening experience for both you and your child. Discuss with the hospital health professionals any questions or concerns you have about your child's care.

• If you are not allowed to stay with your child in the intensive care unit, visit frequently.
• Let your child have some favorite toys or belongings while in the hospital. This will help your child feel more secure.

Last updated:	September 18, 2008
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Donald Sproule, MD, CM, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC