Redness and Symptoms in the Calf After Vaccination

Q: Redness and Symptoms in the Calf After Vaccination

Hello： Regarding the discomfort in your calf, since thrombosis has been ruled out, I would personally consider the possibility of vasculitis. <br>As for the condition you mentioned, Marshall-Smith syndrome, it is a rare disease caused by a congenital genetic mutation. <br>In addi

Regarding the redness observed in the calf area?

Hello Doctor, since receiving the AZ vaccine last year, I have been constantly visiting doctors.
Later, the doctors determined that I might have autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
About a month after the vaccination, I noticed that my calves were persistently red with patchy white areas, as shown in the image: https://imgur.com/a/DpBSNVI.
When I elevate my legs, the red areas fade.
I have no idea what the issue could be.
Recently, I also experienced swelling and pain from my thighs to my calves, but regardless of whether there is swelling or pain, the symptoms persist.
After the vaccination, I was tested for blood clots, but the blood tests came back normal, and I still have no idea why this is happening.
I previously researched online and found a similar condition called Marshall-Smith syndrome.
How can I determine if this is the case, or could it be another condition?

YAN, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/06

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: Regarding the discomfort in your calf, since thrombosis has been ruled out, I would personally consider the possibility of vasculitis.
As for the condition you mentioned, Marshall-Smith syndrome, it is a rare disease caused by a congenital genetic mutation.
In addition to skin manifestations, it may also be associated with facial dysmorphisms and abnormalities in other organs.
If you did not have this condition since childhood, the likelihood of having this disease is very low.
Regarding vasculitis, I recommend that you visit the dermatology department of a major hospital, as the diagnosis of vasculitis requires blood tests and possibly a biopsy.

Reply Date: 2022/05/06

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing after receiving the AZ vaccine, particularly the persistent redness and white patches on your calf, warrant careful consideration and evaluation. While it is not uncommon to experience localized reactions at the injection site or systemic reactions after vaccination, the specific symptoms you describe—especially the prolonged nature of the redness and the appearance of white patches—suggest that further investigation is necessary.

Firstly, it is important to understand that vaccines, including the AZ vaccine, can elicit various immune responses. Common side effects include localized pain, redness, swelling at the injection site, and systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue. However, the symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the ongoing redness in your calf, may not be typical post-vaccination reactions.
The fact that the redness in your calf improves when you elevate your leg could indicate a vascular issue, such as venous insufficiency or a reaction to changes in blood flow. The presence of white patches may suggest a dermatological condition, such as vitiligo or another skin disorder, or it could be related to changes in blood circulation or inflammation.

You mentioned that you have been evaluated for blood clots, which is a critical consideration given the potential for thrombotic events associated with certain vaccines. The absence of blood clots in your tests is reassuring, but it does not rule out other vascular or dermatological conditions.

Regarding your mention of Marshall-Wythe syndrome, it is important to clarify that this syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by specific physical features and developmental delays. It is unlikely that your symptoms are related to this syndrome unless there are other significant clinical features present.
To further evaluate your condition, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Dermatologist: A dermatologist can assess the skin changes you are experiencing. They may perform a skin biopsy or other tests to determine the underlying cause of the redness and white patches.

2. Vascular Evaluation: Since your symptoms improve with leg elevation, a vascular specialist may be able to assess for issues related to venous circulation. Doppler ultrasound studies can help evaluate blood flow in your legs.

3. Neurological Assessment: Given the mention of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, it may be beneficial to consult a neurologist. They can evaluate for any potential neurological causes of your symptoms.

4. Monitoring and Documentation: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any associated factors (such as activity level, diet, or stress). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare providers.

5. Consider Other Conditions: Conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency, dermatitis, or even autoimmune disorders could present with similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation by your healthcare team can help rule out these possibilities.

In summary, while your symptoms may not be directly attributable to the AZ vaccine, they require a comprehensive evaluation to determine their cause. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare providers to explore all potential avenues for diagnosis and treatment. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly will help ensure that you receive the appropriate care.

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