Charles J. Keyser v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2025)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On October 2, 2020, Charles J. Keyser filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccine administered on October 9, 2017 caused Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The case first produced a contested Table ruling. Early records described lower back and leg symptoms, altered walking, knee issues, lumbar spondylosis or degenerative disc disease, paresthesias, reduced reflexes, and later progressive bilateral lower-extremity weakness.
At a November 2017 emergency visit, Mr. Keyser described symptoms beginning two days after the flu shot, and lumbar puncture findings supported a GBS diagnosis.
He improved with IVIG. The Special Master initially rejected Table entitlement because lumbar spine disease and overlapping symptoms complicated onset and alternative-cause analysis, while leaving room for an off-Table causation case.
The parties later resolved compensation by stipulation. Respondent continued to deny that the flu vaccine caused Mr.
Keyser's GBS or any other condition. On March 13, 2025, Chief Special Master Brian H.
Corcoran adopted the stipulation and awarded Mr. Keyser a lump sum of $33,000.00.
A later attorney-fee award was separate from injury compensation. Mr.
Keyser was represented by Nancy R. Meyers.
Theory of causation
Influenza vaccine on October 9, 2017 allegedly causing GBS; adult self-filed petitioner, exact age not stated. COMPENSATED by stipulation after contested Table ruling. Key evidence: early lower back/leg symptoms and lumbar spondylosis/DDD alternative issue; later progressive bilateral leg weakness, LP consistent with GBS, improvement with IVIG; Table claim rejected but off-Table case later settled. Award $33,000 lump sum; later fee award separate. Chief SM Brian H. Corcoran; petition October 2, 2020; compensation decision March 13, 2025. Attorney Nancy R. Meyers.