Which syndrome may occur in children given aspirin for a viral infection?

Reye's syndrome is a potentially serious condition that can occur in children and teenagers who have recently had a viral infection, particularly influenza or chickenpox, and who have been treated with aspirin. The syndrome is characterized by sudden onset of encephalopathy (brain swelling) and fatty liver degeneration. The exact cause of Reye's syndrome is not fully understood, but there is a strong association with the use of aspirin during viral illnesses.

When aspirin is administered to these children, the risk of developing Reye's syndrome significantly increases, leading to severe complications such as brain damage, liver failure, and even death if not treated promptly. This is why aspirin is generally contraindicated in those under 19 years of age when they have viral infections.

In contrast, the other syndromes mentioned have different etiologies and are not related to the use of aspirin. Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, Turner syndrome is a chromosomal condition that affects females and is characterized by the absence of part or all of a second sex chromosome, and Asperger's syndrome is considered a developmental disorder on the autism spectrum. None of these conditions are influenced by the administration of aspirin in the context of viral infections.