Parsonage-Turner Syndrome After SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 Vaccine: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2021 Sep 24;11(3). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.21.00370.

Abstract

Case: Parsonage-Turner syndrome, also known as brachial neuritis or neuralgic amyotrophy, is characterized by sudden-onset pain and subsequent weakness of the shoulder. Known precipitating factors include viral and bacterial infections and certain immunizations. Isolated cases after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have been reported. We report the case of a 66-year-old woman with right shoulder dysfunction and medial scapular winging after immunization with the SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 vaccine (Pfizer).

Conclusion: After physical therapy, the patient resumed her normal activities of daily living. Findings from this case represent the first known documentation of Parsonage-Turner syndrome after SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 vaccination.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • BNT162 Vaccine
  • Brachial Plexus Neuritis / diagnosis
  • Brachial Plexus Neuritis / etiology*
  • Brachial Plexus Neuritis / rehabilitation
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Physical Therapy Modalities

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • BNT162 Vaccine