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Published on: December 19, 2020
COVID-19 Vaccine-Induced Severe Pneumonitis
Tatsuro Suzuki1,2, Hiromi Furuta1, Misa Naganawa1
1Department of Respiratory Medicine Toyokawa City Hospital Toyokawa City Japan.
Abstract:
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in global morbidity, mortality, and societal disruption. COVID-19 mRNA vaccination was mandatory in many countries for a period; however, severe adverse events have been observed in some individuals who received the vaccine. We report a case of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-induced pneumonitis in a male patient whose cytokine levels were analysed prior to admission. His serum IgE level was high (347 U/mL), and several cytokines were elevated: TNFα was 1.2 pg/mL, IL-6 was 156 pg/mL, and IL-8 was 75.0 pg/mL. The patient developed severe respiratory failure requiring ventilatory support but recovered after steroid pulse therapy.
Insights
Severe adverse events following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination can occur. This case report details vaccine-induced pneumonitis, characterized by elevated cytokines and respiratory failure, which resolved with steroid therapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused significant global health and societal impacts.
- COVID-19 mRNA vaccination was widely implemented, with rare reports of severe adverse events.
- Understanding vaccine-related adverse events is crucial for public health and vaccine safety monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of pneumonitis potentially induced by COVID-19 mRNA vaccination.
- To analyze the cytokine profile in a patient experiencing severe adverse events post-vaccination.
- To describe the clinical course and treatment outcome of vaccine-induced pneumonitis.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a male patient presenting with respiratory symptoms after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination.
- Analysis of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) and cytokine levels (TNFα, IL-6, IL-8) prior to admission.
- Clinical management including ventilatory support and steroid pulse therapy.
Main Results:
- The patient exhibited elevated serum IgE (347 U/mL) and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines: TNFα (1.2 pg/mL), IL-6 (156 pg/mL), and IL-8 (75.0 pg/mL).
- The patient developed severe respiratory failure necessitating mechanical ventilation.
- Recovery was achieved following high-dose steroid pulse therapy.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 mRNA vaccines can, in rare instances, be associated with severe adverse events like pneumonitis.
- Elevated cytokine levels may play a role in the pathogenesis of vaccine-induced pneumonitis.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including corticosteroids, are essential for managing this rare complication.
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