Causes and risk factors:
The exact cause of Reyes syndrome is not known. However certain predisposing factors have been put forth. The syndrome may occur after an upper respiratory tract infection of infection by varicella or after an episode of gastroenteritis. Use of aspirin for treatment of chicken pox and flu in children is known to trigger Reyes syndrome. Numuslide is another drug responsible. Exposure to Certain substances like insecticides, pesticides and thinner used in paints is another contributing factor.
Clinical presentations:
The initial symptoms with which the child comes up is continuous vomiting and diarrhea the child becomes irritable and aggressive. Dullness occurs .Double vision; hearing loss along with speech difficulties comes up gradually. Weakness, paralysis of extremities, convulsions and unconsciousness are other symptoms seen.
Diagnosis and investigations:
There is no specific test for diagnosing Reyes syndrome however the symptoms narrated by the members attending the patient along with certain investigations can help in confirming the diagnosis. Routine blood test, liver function test, MRI and CT scan of the brain and liver and liver biopsy can be done. Lumbar puncture test is done for examining the CSF to rule out the other underlying pathology.
Treatment:
Hospitalization and close monitoring is the main stand in treatment of Reyes Syndrome. In severe cases intensive care is essential. Intravenous fluid (Electrolyte and glucose) are administered. Medicines like diuretics and steroids are given. In advanced stages, a ventilator may be used to assist breathing. Surgical methods like a drainage procedure or decompression craniotomy may be required.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating herpes infection. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
Recent update:
A research carried out recently stated that DLD (Dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase) deficiency should be considered in patients with Reye-like syndrome or liver failure even in the absence of suggestive biochemical findings.
