Aseptic meningitis after SARS-CoV-2 Pfizer/BioNTech vaccination

Acta Clin Belg. 2022 Dec;77(6):976-979. doi: 10.1080/17843286.2021.2015101. Epub 2021 Dec 9.

Abstract

Objective: Aseptic meningitis is a rare, but possible severe side effect after SARS-CoV-2 Pfizer/BioNTech vaccination.

Case presentation: Recently, a first case of aseptic meningitis after the first shot of mRNA-BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 (Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine was reported. We present the first case of a 34-year-old woman without relevant medical history developing aseptic meningitis after her 2nd Pfizer/BioNTech vaccination. She was admitted with severe headache and fever for 5 days prior to her presentation at the emergency department. An extensive work-up of the clinical problem could narrow the differential diagnosis. Symptoms resolved after methylprednisolone therapy.

Conclusion: This case highlights a rare but important side effect after vaccination that primary physicians and neurologists should be aware of in order to identify and efficiently manage these patients.

Keywords: COVID-19; COVID-19 Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine; SARS-CoV-2; aseptic meningitis; vaccination.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • BNT162 Vaccine
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Meningitis, Aseptic* / diagnosis
  • Meningitis, Aseptic* / etiology
  • Methylprednisolone
  • RNA, Messenger
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccination

Substances

  • BNT162 Vaccine
  • Methylprednisolone
  • RNA, Messenger