Error Message Opening Pdf Files

I'm getting an error message when trying to open certain ( not all) pdf files on web sites.
The file path shown is c:\ .. . . . . . .user XXXXX\local settings\temporary Internet files\content\IE\ {series of letters and numerals} {1}.pdf
Invalid menu handle.

Anyone able to interpret this? I have Adobe Reader v. 7 installed and enabled. I have run three AV programs to try and clean out the trash, and the system seems clean. I've also run check disc, and Sytsem Mechanic registry scan. I had a bunch of stuff in the registry which I dumped. Could I have inadvertantly dumped a registry file that needed?

I had a bunch of stuff in the registry which I dumped. Could I have inadvertantly dumped a registry file that needed?

Yes you just might have, did you backup the registry before you started dumping?

here is a good registry backup program.

ERUNT = http://www.larshederer.homepage.t-online.de/erunt/

I really hope you have the Windows install software and your legal COA = key code

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install = http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Before you start reinstalling Windows or getting into registry edits go to Windows System Restore

start/programs/accessories/system tools/system restore

Start the wizard and choose a date from before you started deleting registry entries.

That somewhat convoluted error message looks like Adobe Reader is having a font issue.
A simple uninstall and re-install of Reader may be all that's needed.

Thanks Guys for the advice' I will take it under advisement

I had tried the System Restore before i wrote the post.

I have a feeling that my system is very unstable at the moment. Programs are either not opening immediately, as they usually do, or, in some cases, open in "pieces". Once open, everything seems to work well enough.

I am considering, because of this. a reformat of my HDD. I know that's drastic, but I'm convinced that something is wrong. This outfit should be blazingly fast; I should not have to sit and wait even 15 seconds for something to open! Right?

I have a class to teach this afternoon, so I may get to some of these suggestions tonight. Keep your fingers crossed; I have 16 newbies in a computer lab, some of whom have never touched a PC before!
Am I crazy, senile or what?

Try going to safe mode and use last known good configuration,

That's worth a try before you reformat and reinstall.