Reye’s Syndrome USMLE Notes

Reye’s Syndrome USMLE Notes & Mnemonics contains all the high-yield points you need to know.

• Definition: Rare, serious condition causing acute encephalopathy and fatty liver.
• Association: Often follows viral infection (e.g., influenza, varicella) and linked with aspirin use in children.

Pathophysiology

• Aspirin metabolites may interfere with mitochondrial functions in liver cells. (ref)
• Results in hepatic steatosis and encephalopathy.

Epidemiology

• Mainly affects children and teenagers.
• Has become rarer due to decreased aspirin use in children.

Clinical Features

• Rapidly progressive encephalopathy.
• Vomiting.
• Liver dysfunction.
• Seizures and loss of consciousness in severe cases.
• Hypoglycemia and elevated liver enzymes (ALT and AST).

Diagnosis

• Clinical history (recent viral infection, aspirin use).
• Elevated liver enzymes.
• Hyperammonemia.
• Exclusion of other causes of acute liver failure and encephalopathy.

Treatment

• Supportive care (IV fluids, electrolyte management).
• Reduction of intracranial pressure (if needed).
• Avoid aspirin and aspirin-containing products.

Prevention

• Avoid aspirin in children and teenagers, especially during viral illnesses.

Reye’s Syndrome USMLE Mnemonic: “REYE’S“

• Rapid progression
• Encephalopathy
• Young population (children/teenagers)
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Salicylates (aspirin) association

Check other important USMLE Notes

Reye’s Syndrome USMLE Key Points:

• Recognize the association with aspirin use in the context of a viral infection.
• Understand the clinical presentation, particularly the combination of encephalopathy and liver dysfunction.
• Remember that Reye’s syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion and requires careful clinical assessment.
• Emphasize the importance of supportive care and the avoidance of aspirin in pediatric populations during viral illnesses.

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