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Influenza vaccine related periostitis: A case report of a rare complication
Kaitlyn R Julian1, Kevin Sweetwood2, Daria Motamedi2
1School of Medicine, University of California - San Francisco, 533 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143.
Abstract:
As social distancing guidelines continue to diminish across the country, viral pathogens that were once absent during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as influenza and RSV, have once again become prominent. Although serious side effects of vaccinations are rare, local complications of bursitis and skin and soft tissue infections are well-documented in the literature. We present a case of 1 such rare side effect: influenza vaccine related periostitis. A 39-year-old male patient presented with left shoulder pain which developed 2 days after an influenza vaccination administered to the left deltoid. His symptoms were persistent despite rest and 1 week trial of NSAIDs. MRI imaging demonstrated marrow edema and a periosteal reaction of the left shoulder. Overall, vaccine induced periostitis is poorly documented in the literature and the pathophysiology has not been fully characterized. Further research is crucial to identify patient specific risk factors and to raise awareness of this rare complication to promote swift diagnosis and effective treatment.
Insights
Influenza vaccination can rarely cause periostitis, an inflammation of the bone lining. This case highlights a rare side effect of the flu shot, emphasizing the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Orthopedics
- Public Health
Background:
- Resurgence of viral pathogens like influenza and RSV post-COVID-19 pandemic.
- Established local complications of vaccinations include bursitis and soft tissue infections.
- Periostitis is a rare but documented adverse event following vaccination.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old male developed left shoulder pain two days post-influenza vaccination.
- Symptoms persisted despite rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- MRI revealed bone marrow edema and periosteal reaction in the affected shoulder.
Findings:
- Presents a rare case of influenza vaccine-related periostitis.
- Demonstrates imaging findings indicative of periosteal inflammation post-vaccination.
- Highlights the under-documentation and poorly characterized pathophysiology of vaccine-induced periostitis.
Implications:
- Underscores the importance of recognizing rare vaccine side effects for accurate diagnosis.
- Suggests a need for further research into patient-specific risk factors for vaccine-induced periostitis.
- Emphasizes raising awareness among healthcare providers regarding this uncommon complication to ensure prompt management.
