Reye's syndrome

Abstract

Reye's syndrome is a rare disorder appearing almost always in childhood. It is characterized by acute encephalopathy and fatty degeneration of the viscera. The mortality is high and many survivors have neurologic sequelae. A viral illness, particularly varicella or influenza B, usually precedes the syndrome. It has been associated with the use of aspirin during such infections. The number of cases has declined in countries where there has been a public education campaign and aspirin products have been withdrawn from sale. It is suggested that the same campaign is initiated in Denmark.