[Characterization of hypotonia-hyporesponsiveness after pentavalent vaccine and neurodevelopmental screening in children under 6 years of age, 2013-2018, Uruguay].

BACKGROUND

Hypotonic-hyporesponsive episodes (HHE) is one frequently reported neurologic adverse effect supposedly attributable to vaccination and immunization. Its long-term impact on neurodevelopment is not completely known.

AIM

To characterize the post-pentavalent vaccine HHE events reported to the Uruguayan Ministry of Health (M of H) between 2014 and 2018. To perform neurodevelopment screening of those who were under 6 years of age at the time of evaluation.

METHODS

Descriptive study of the reports made to the National Farmacosurveillance System of the M of H. Neurodevelopment screening was performed using the National Guidelines for Developmental Surveillance.

RESULTS

30 cases were studied. Most cases occurred after the first doses, were of short duration and during the first hours after vaccination, with spontaneous recovery. Median time between the event and this evaluation was 2 years and 2 months. Screening tests were normal in 15. Delay in the language area was detected in one case.

CONCLUSIONS

HHE events had similar characteristics to those described in the literature, with no severe short-term complications. Despite the limitations of the present study, no delays nor deviations were found in the development of the children who were evaluated.