Drug therapy for Reye's syndrome.

The pathogenesis, biochemical defects, pathophysiology, clinical and laboratory symptoms, and treatment of Reye's syndrome are reviewed. The etiology of the syndrome is unknown, but it appears to be a viral interference with basic biochemical processes. Increased intracranial pressure is one of the most lethal aspects of the disease; cerebral edema often ensues. Physiologic and pharmacologic methods of treating cerebral edema, including the use of osmotically active agents (mannitol, urea and glycerol), corti-costeroids and potent diuretics are reviewed. Correction of the biochemical abnormalities with enzyme and nutritional factor replacement is discussed. Intensive supportive care, including maintenance of fluid and electrolytes, reduction of intracranial pressure and elective endotracheal intubation, is the mainstay of treatment.