Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain, primarily affecting children and teenagers. It is caused by mitochondrial dysfunction in liver cells, often triggered by aspirin use during viral infections like influenza or chickenpox. The Ammonia Plasma test is the most important test for monitoring Reye's syndrome because elevated ammonia levels indicate liver damage severity and brain toxicity risk.
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Reye's syndrome is caused by mitochondrial dysfunction in liver cells that disrupts normal metabolism and leads to toxic ammonia buildup. The condition is most commonly triggered by giving aspirin to children or teenagers during viral infections like influenza, chickenpox, or other respiratory illnesses. When mitochondria fail to function properly, the liver cannot process ammonia and other toxins, causing them to accumulate in the bloodstream and reach dangerous levels that affect the brain, leading to swelling and potentially life-threatening neurological complications.
The Ammonia Plasma test is the most important test for Reye's syndrome because it measures ammonia levels in the blood, which become significantly elevated when the liver is damaged and cannot process toxins properly. High ammonia concentrations are toxic to the brain and directly contribute to the dangerous neurological symptoms like confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness seen in this condition. While Reye's syndrome is diagnosed clinically based on symptoms and medical history, monitoring ammonia levels is essential for assessing disease severity, guiding emergency treatment decisions, and tracking patient response to therapy in the hospital setting.
You should get tested immediately if a child or teenager who recently had a viral infection like flu or chickenpox suddenly develops persistent vomiting, unusual drowsiness, confusion, aggressive behavior, or seizures, especially if they took aspirin during the illness. Reye's syndrome is a medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization and testing. Early symptoms can rapidly progress from lethargy and vomiting to severe brain swelling, coma, and life-threatening complications within hours, so urgent medical evaluation and blood work to check ammonia and liver function are critical for survival and preventing permanent brain damage.
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What this means
Your plasma ammonia level is elevated above the optimal range. This may indicate that your liver is having difficulty converting ammonia to urea for elimination, which can contribute to symptoms like fatigue, confusion, or difficulty concentrating. Elevated ammonia requires medical attention to identify the underlying cause and prevent further complications.
Recommended actions
Follow up with your doctor or a liver specialist to discuss results and underlying causes
Consider reducing dietary protein intake if recommended by your healthcare provider
Stay well-hydrated to support kidney function and toxin elimination
Avoid alcohol completely and discuss any medications that may affect liver function
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