Optic neuritis after influenza vaccination.
OBJECTIVE
To present evidence for a causal relation between optic neuritis and influenza vaccination.


METHODS
Case report. In a 59-year-old woman with bilateral optic neuritis, neuro-ophthalmologic examination, magnetic resonance imaging, fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test, antinuclear antibodies, and complete blood cell count and chemistry were performed.


RESULTS
Our patient developed bilateral optic neuritis on two occasions, 1 year apart. No evidence of neuroretinitis, syphilis, or systemic lupus erythematosus was identified. Influenza vaccination was given 2 weeks before the onset of each episode.


CONCLUSIONS
This case provides compelling clinical evidence that implicates influenza vaccination as a cause of optic neuritis.
Hull
T P
TP
Department of Ophthalmology, Summa Health System, Akron, OH, USA. Tomphull@AOL.com
Bates
J H
JH
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009902:Optic Neuritis / Q000209:etiology*; D014611:Vaccination / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000209:etiology
D007252:Influenza Vaccines