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Acute cerebellar ataxia after influenza vaccination with recurrence and marked cerebellar atrophy

H Saito1, T Yanagisawa

  • 1Department of Neurology, Institute of Brain Diseases, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.

The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine
|May 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

A child developed acute cerebellar ataxia after an influenza vaccine, experiencing recurrence and severe cerebellar atrophy. This case highlights a rare, persistent neurological outcome following vaccination.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Acute cerebellar ataxia (ACA) is a neurological disorder characterized by sudden onset of ataxia.
  • Vaccinations, including influenza vaccines, are generally safe but can rarely be associated with neurological adverse events.
  • Understanding the link between vaccinations and neurological conditions is crucial for public health and patient safety.

Observation:

  • A previously healthy 5-year-old girl presented with ACA 8 days post-influenza vaccination.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) showed moderate pleocytosis, while initial brain CT was normal.
  • Symptoms initially improved but recurred 33 months later, leading to persistent ataxia.

Findings:

  • The patient developed marked cerebellar atrophy on CT and MRI 16 months after ataxia recurrence.
  • This case represents the first documented instance of ACA with recurrence and severe cerebellar atrophy following vaccination.
  • Etiology and pathogenesis of this rare neurological sequela remain undetermined.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of continued surveillance for rare neurological adverse events post-vaccination.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying vaccine-associated neurological complications.
  • Long-term follow-up is essential for patients presenting with post-vaccination neurological syndromes.

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