In a recent vaccine trial in the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, David
Carney, Esquire, represented a Brooklyn man who developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome
(GBS) after receiving the TDaP vaccine in 2019. TDaP is a vaccine that protects against three bacterial infections, including tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. The central issue of the case was whether the man’s symptoms were the result of GBS or Chronic Inflammatory
Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) and whether the TDaP vaccine could have
caused either condition. During the thorough and highly technical trial, David
demonstrated through expert witnesses that the petitioner’s diagnosis was indeed GBS,
which was caused by the vaccine.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune
system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, often following an infection or
vaccination. Symptoms include muscle weakness, paralysis, tingling sensations, and in
severe cases, respiratory failure. Treatment typically involves immunotherapy such as
plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and while many patients
recover with time, GBS can result in long-term neurological issues in some cases.
CIDP is a neurological disorder characterized by progressive weakness and sensory loss
due to inflammation of the peripheral nerves. Symptoms include symmetrical muscle
weakness, tingling, and pain, which typically worsen over time without treatment. CIDP
is often treated with immunosuppressive therapies such as corticosteroids or IVIG, and
while many patients respond to treatment, some experience recurring symptoms and
long-term disability.
Given the amount of medical literature and evidence to support the causal link between
the TDaP vaccine and GBS as compared to the flu vaccine, this case decision will help
shape the future of all TDaP/GBS cases to come in the National Vaccine Injury
Compensation Program.
[David Carney, is a seasoned vaccine injury trial lawyer](https://www.greenlegalteam.com/david-carney/) and partner of Green & Schafle law firm in Philadelphia, who focuses his practice on handling complex and challenging cases. He has an impressive track record of taking vaccine injury cases to trial, demonstrating his deep understanding of both legal strategy and medical nuances. As the current President of the Vaccine Injured Petitioners Bar Association, David advocates for the rights of those impacted by vaccine-related injuries. His commitment to his clients and his expertise in navigating the intricate legal and medical aspects of vaccine injury cases sets him a part as a leading advocate in this specialized area of law.
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