Class of 2005 Abstract / Objectives: The purpose of this study is to conduct a structured literature search and review of published studies or case reports to evaluate the scientific validity of the association between the use of aspirin in children and the development of Reye’s syndrome exists. Methods: In this descriptive study to evaluate the literature, a Medline online database (1966 to April 2005) literature review was conducted with the purpose of identifying studies and case reports involving the association between aspirin and Reye’s Syndrome. Information examined from the various articles included: type of study, method of data analysis, viral diagnosis, confirmation of diagnostic accuracy, number of patients, age range of patients, other diseases considered, and p values/Odds ratios if available. Results: Of the eight true case-control studies analyzed (the additional case-control study was modified), seven supported the association between aspirin and Reye’s Syndrome with statistically significant differences found between cases and controls (a p- value of < 0.05 or an OR of at least 16). Only one case-control study found no stat istically significant association between the use of aspirin and the development of Reye’s Syndrome. Multiple discrepancies and methodological problems are discussed in detail. Implications: Based on available information, the FDA acted appropriately in 1986. However, aspirin has not been shown to cause Reye’s Syndrome.

No description available.