A case of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis following vaccination against Covid-19

J Neuroimmunol. 2021 Sep 15:358:577606. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577606. Epub 2021 Jun 24.

Abstract

Background: Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) is a rare subtype of transverse myelitis (TM) that potentially results in relevant disability. Apart from association to neuromyelitis optica and other chronic demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, many other aetiologies are known. Particularly systemic infections and vaccination are considered potential triggers for immune mediated inflammation of the spinal cord. In the course of the current Covid-19 pandemic several cases of TM following Covid-19 infection have been described. Here we present a case of LETM following vaccination against Covid-19 with AZD1222, AstraZeneca. An extensive diagnostic work up was performed to rule out alternative causes, including prior and current Covid-19 infection.

Conclusion: To our knowledge this is first case of LETM possibly related to Covid-19 vaccination that is published after marketing authorisation of various vaccine candidates.

Keywords: Covid-19; Covid-19 vaccination; Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis; SARS-CoV-2; Transverse myelitis; Vaccine related disorder.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / administration & dosage
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / adverse effects*
  • ChAdOx1 nCoV-19
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myelitis, Transverse / chemically induced*
  • Myelitis, Transverse / diagnostic imaging*
  • Myelitis, Transverse / drug therapy
  • Vaccination / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • ChAdOx1 nCoV-19