Lisa Turner v. HHS - Hepatitis B, multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis (2017)

Lisa Turner filed a petition on December 4, 2008, alleging that she developed multiple sclerosis (MS) and optic neuritis as a result of receiving a Hepatitis B vaccine on December 20, 2005. At the time of vaccination, Ms.

Turner was thirty-four years old and received the third dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine. Her medical history included prior back pain, scoliosis, and other non-neurological issues.

Following the vaccination, she reported visual disturbances and dizziness, which progressed to more severe symptoms including blurry vision and neck pain. An MRI in May 2006 revealed an enhancing lesion in her brain, and by October 2007, a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis was confirmed, with further lesions identified on subsequent MRIs.

The parties presented expert testimony regarding the onset of MS symptoms and causation. Dr.

Lawrence Steinman, for the petitioner, opined that the Hepatitis B vaccine caused Ms. Turner's MS through molecular mimicry, with onset occurring between four days and forty-two days post-vaccination.

Dr. David Alexander, for the respondent, argued that Ms.

Turner had pre-existing MS symptoms dating back to 2003 or earlier. The Special Master found the issue of onset to be a close call but ultimately ruled in favor of the petitioner, finding entitlement to compensation.

A subsequent stipulation awarded Ms. Turner a total of $1,022,331.95 for life care expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, past unreimbursable expenses, and a Medicaid lien, along with an annuity contract.