Macrophagic myofasciitis: a summary of Dr. Gherardi's presentations

Vaccine. 2002 May 31:20 Suppl 3:S5-6. doi: 10.1016/s0264-410x(02)00167-6.

Abstract

Dr. R.K. Gherardi presented two papers at the symposium, detailing his researches into a proposed new clinical entity which he has entitled Macrophagic Myofasciitis (MMF). In his first paper he described the histopathologic and immunologic characteristics of the condition, and in the second, the clinical and serologic features. Dr. Gherardi believes that MMF, a syndrome of ascending myalgias, fatigue and diffuse musculoskeletal pain, may be related to a chronic immune response to aluminum granulomas persisting at the sites of prior immunization with aluminum adjuvated vaccines.

MeSH terms

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / adverse effects*
  • Aluminum Hydroxide / adverse effects*
  • Fasciitis / chemically induced*
  • Fasciitis / pathology
  • Granuloma / complications*
  • Humans
  • Macrophages / pathology*
  • Myositis / chemically induced*
  • Myositis / pathology
  • Vaccination / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic
  • Aluminum Hydroxide