Outbreak of killer brain disease in children.

One hundred and twenty four cases of Reye’s syndrome admitted to Vani Vilas Children Hopital, bangalore were investigated. Clinical, biochemical and epidemiological details were obtained. The median age was five years, with no difference in sex ratio. This disease was frequent in winter months. Cases clustered in certain congested localities of the city among lower socio econnomic strata. Aspirin and varicella could not be associated as preceding factors. The clinical and biochemical features of the patients were suggestive of Reye’s Syndrome. Histopatho-logical evaluation was done in 104 liver biopsy specimens and 102 brain specimens (post mortem). Virological studies for influenza and arbovirus were negative. Mortality was high (78%). During this period CT scan was not available and hence brain CT was not done in any of these cases.