Reye syndrome often begins with vomiting, which lasts for many hours. The vomiting is quickly followed by irritable and aggressive behavior. As the condition gets worse, the child may be unable to stay awake and alert.

Other symptoms of Reye syndrome:

• Confusion
• Lethargy
• Loss of consciousness or coma
• Mental changes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Unusual placement of arms and legs (decerebrate posture) -- the arms are extended straight and turned toward the body, the legs are held straight, and the toes are pointed downward

Other symptoms that can occur with this disorder include:

• Double vision
• Hearing loss
• Muscle function loss or paralysis of the arms or legs
• Speech difficulties
• Weakness in the arms or legs

The following tests may be used to diagnose Reye syndrome:

• Blood chemistry tests
• Head CT or head MRI scan
• Liver biopsy
• Liver function tests
• Serum ammonia test
• Spinal tap

Images

Digestive system organs

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Reye syndrome Overview

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Reye syndrome Treatment

Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)