Can vaccination cause patchy white matter lesions in the brain?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, vaccination does not cause patchy white matter abnormalities in the brain; only in extremely rare and specific cases might there be a potential association. Whether such issues occur mainly depends on the characteristics of the vaccine itself and the individual's health condition. To ensure vaccination safety, individuals should truthfully inform the doctor of their health status before vaccination, especially any history of neurological disorders or immune-related conditions. After vaccination, they should remain under observation as required.

Under normal circumstances, vaccination does not cause patchy white matter abnormalities in the brain; only in extremely rare and exceptional cases might there be a potential association. Whether such issues occur mainly depends on the characteristics of the vaccine itself and the individual health status of the recipient. A detailed analysis is as follows:

Routine, approved vaccines undergo rigorous safety testing. Common adverse reactions after vaccination are typically mild, such as local redness and swelling, low-grade fever, or fatigue, which usually resolve spontaneously and do not damage the brain or lead to patchy white matter abnormalities. The vast majority of people do not experience such severe neurological complications after vaccination.

In extremely rare cases, if the recipient has severe immune deficiencies, pre-existing brain conditions, or develops a rare and severe allergic reaction affecting the brain after vaccination, brain abnormalities could theoretically occur indirectly. However, the likelihood of this is extremely low and is not a direct result of the vaccine itself.

To ensure vaccination safety, individuals should fully disclose their medical history to healthcare providers before vaccination, especially any history of brain disorders or immune-related conditions. After vaccination, remain under observation as required, and seek prompt medical attention if any unusual symptoms occur. There is no need for excessive concern about serious brain-related risks.