Reye's syndrome is a specific disease that is characterized by toxic lesions of the brain and liver. As a rule, a similar condition is diagnosed among children aged four to twelve years.
Reye's syndrome occurs against the background of infectious diseases of a viral and bacterial nature, which greatly complicates the early diagnosis. It is believed that as a result of the incorrect intake of acetylsalicylic acid in the child's body, it launches a number of dangerous biochemical reactions.
Liver tissue is most affected - hepatitis first develops, which is replaced by other liver damage syndromes, including fatty degeneration and cirrhosis. At the same time, brain damage with toxins leads to a decrease in intelligence, and sometimes to mental retardation.
Ray's syndrome: causes . The disease was first described in 1963 by the scientist Ray, who observed similar cases. But at that time it was only theories that found scientific confirmation only in the 20s of the last century.
As already mentioned, Reye syndrome is a toxic organ damage. Plant and animal poisons, heavy metals, pesticides can act as a toxin. But the most common cause is the misuse of drugs containing acetylsalicylic acid. The fact is that under the influence of aspirin, a cascade of biochemical reactions is activated. As a result of this , mitochondrial function is inhibited , deformation of the cristae, swelling and further rupture of the membranes of these organelles are observed. Further, glycogen stores in the liver and muscles begin to decrease sharply.
Reye's syndrome: the main symptoms . Reye's syndrome develops against the background of an infectious disease (acute respiratory diseases, chickenpox, measles), during which antipyretic drugs are needed. And since the child is already tormented by weakness and fever, it is almost impossible to notice the first signs of such a dangerous syndrome.
The first sign is a sudden deterioration and constant vomiting in the morning. Sometimes a small rash appears. Then the course of the disease accelerates - a change in the nervous system begins. First, the sick baby becomes inhibited and sleepy, does not respond to questions, rarely participates in communication. You may notice trembling hands or uncontrolled contraction of certain muscle groups. Inadequate reactions from the child are sometimes observed. Then comes the so-called “stupor” state, when the patient stops moving and no longer makes contact with others.
In addition, an increase in the size of the liver is observed, although the characteristic “icteric” skin color is not observed. The kidneys are also affected, which is accompanied by a decrease in the daily amount of urine. There is a risk of developing acute renal failure.
Soon detachment is changing violent motor activity and the appearance of hallucinations. As the disease progresses, the sick baby falls into a coma. In the absence of appropriate treatment, convulsions begin, and then a complete stop of breathing.
Reye's syndrome: treatment methods . If there are disturbing symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor. Only early hospitalization and proper treatment can save a child's life and reduce the risk of developing mental disorders. In fact, there are no drugs that can quickly get rid of this ailment. The only thing that doctors can do is to support the processes of life, to treat the symptoms and complications of the disease. The success of such treatment depends on the age of the child (the greater the risk, the smaller the patient’s age), as well as the degree of damage to the brain and liver.
In order to prevent the development of such a condition, it is necessary to abandon the uncontrolled intake of antipyretic drugs. Aspirin and all drugs that contain acetylsalicylic acid are forbidden to give to children under 12 years of age. It is better to replace the drug with drugs that are developed on the basis of paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, the doctor's recommendations must be followed.