Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

The use of which of the following medications is associated with Reye's syndrome?

1. Ibuprofen

2. Analgesic cream

3. Aspirin

4. Acetaminophen

The correct answer is: Aspirin

Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can cause swelling in the liver and brain, and it has been linked primarily to the use of aspirin in children and teenagers, particularly when they are recovering from a viral infection like influenza or chickenpox. The mechanism by which aspirin induces Reye's syndrome is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve mitochondrial dysfunction leading to fatty degeneration of the liver and an inflammatory response in the brain. When treating conditions in younger populations, it's crucial to avoid using aspirin due to this association with Reye's syndrome. The other medications listed, such as ibuprofen, analgesic creams, and acetaminophen, have not been linked to Reye's syndrome, making them safer alternatives for managing fever and pain in children and adolescents. Hence, the correct answer emphasizes the specific risk that aspirin carries, highlighting the need for caution when administering this medication in younger patients.