Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration.

Area of Science:

• Vaccinology
• Musculoskeletal Imaging
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) is a known complication of intramuscular deltoid vaccinations.
• Incorrect needle placement during vaccination can lead to significant shoulder morbidity.
• Awareness among healthcare providers is crucial for risk mitigation and timely diagnosis.

Observation:

• A 49-year-old male experienced acute shoulder pain post-influenza vaccination.
• Tenderness was localized near the injection site.
• Magnetic resonance imaging revealed humeral head edema indicative of improper needle placement.

Findings:

• The clinical presentation, physical examination, and MRI findings were consistent with SIRVA.
• Osseous edema in the humeral head confirmed the diagnosis.
• The case highlights the diagnostic utility of imaging in SIRVA.

Implications:

• Accurate vaccine administration technique is paramount to prevent SIRVA.
• Clinicians should consider SIRVA in patients presenting with shoulder pain after deltoid injections.
• Prompt diagnosis can guide appropriate patient management and potentially reduce long-term complications.