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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Link between hepatitis B vaccine and demyelinating diseases?
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Link between hepatitis B vaccine and demyelinating diseases?
by Barbara__0__0, Jul 24, 1998 12:00AM
Do you think there is any relationship between the fact that I had the first
two of the three hepatitis B vaccines and the day after the second experienced
neurological symptoms typical to MS? Although I haven't been diagnosed with
MS (yet), I had had two episodes 8 years ago and 3 years ago with tingling,
some muscular pain and weakness and generally strange feelings in my arms and
legs. EMG and evoked potentials were normal, but MRI of brain showed white
spots, but were not diagnosed as MS lesions. Anyhow, had the second shot
7 weeks ago and I'm experiencing all this and more, including some weakness
in my legs, like I'm walking uphill all the time as well as small muscle
twitches in my legs. Has the vaccine
possibly "reignited" some lingering demyelinating process in my CNS? Or is it
a coincindence?
Can anything be done? Will try to discuss this with my neurologist at my
next appointment. I was given no warning about possible side effects
of the vaccine.
===============================================================
Thanks for your question. Your question is actually one that many neurologist
specialized in MS are still debating. There have been clinical case reports
both for and against hepatitis vaccination and other vaccinations in
patients that either have MS, or with family antecedents of MS. On one
hand, it is indisputable the severity of the hepatitis B disease and the
importance to protect populations at risk (e.g. healthcare workers); on the
other hand, relapse of MS symptoms also seem a rather high price to pay
as a possible risk of vaccination. The bottom line is, there isn't a
clear answer, and you and your physician should discuss the merits/risk
of each arm of the choice.
I hope this information is helpful.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.
Please consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.
