Leading articles Reye syndrome—insights on causation and prognosis

Reye syndrome (RS) is an abrupt insult to mitochondria manifesting as acute encephalopathy, selective hepatic dysfunction, and fatty infiltration of the viscera—as originally described in 1963 (see Wood). Causation, however, remains unclear, especially the role of aspirin in possible pathogenesis. Although prompt recognition and intensive therapy is essential to full recovery, a paucity of cases in recent years has meant that few younger paediatricians have any personal experience. This and a spate of recent literature—clinical and scientific—has prompted this review.