Presumed Partial Third Nerve Palsy after COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 vaccination has been crucial in controlling the pandemic, yet it has been associated with various complications. Common mild adverse reactions include discomfort and swelling at the injection site, urticaria, rashes, fever, and headaches. Severe adverse events of special interest (AESI) have also been reported, such as facial nerve palsy, myelitis, ischemia, and cranial nerve palsies.Methods: We report a 76-year-old patient with right partial third nerve palsy 20 days after receiving the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Laboratory tests and neuroimaging found no explanation for the patient's problem. The patient was followed up without medications and, over time, the patient's symptoms improved.Conclusion: A notable case involved third nerve palsy following COVID-19 vaccination, highlighting the potential for neurological complications. While these severe reactions are rare, their occurrence emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring and research to ensure vaccine safety. Overall, the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks, but awareness of potential complications is essential for effective healthcare management. © 2024 Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.