Association of Vestibular Neuritis Following COVID-19 Vaccination

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Vestibular neuritis (VN) is an inner ear disorder causing vertigo.
• An association between COVID-19 vaccination and VN has been observed.
• Understanding this link is crucial for patient safety and vaccine management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and analyze case reports on the association between COVID-19 vaccination and VN.
• To identify common clinical features, diagnostic approaches, and treatments for VN post-vaccination.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases.
• Inclusion of case reports published up to July 2023.
• Analysis of case reports for symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and potential pathophysiology.

Main Results:

• Six case reports involving seven individuals were analyzed.
• Patients ranged from 40 to 61 years old (average 51), with male predominance.
• Symptom onset averaged 6.35 days post-vaccination, presenting with vertigo, nausea, vomiting, nystagmus, and gait instability.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 vaccination is associated with vestibular neuritis.
• Further research is needed to establish causality and understand the underlying mechanisms.
• Clinical vigilance for VN in vaccinated individuals is important.