White v. Secretary of Health and Human Services

In the United States Court of Federal Claims

OFFICE OF SPECIAL MASTERS

Filed: December 19, 2019

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

HEIDI WHITE and DAVID WHITE, * Published

Parents of Minor A.C.W., *

*

Petitioners, * No. 15-1521V

*

v. *

* Special Master Gowen

SECRETARY OF HEALTH *

AND HUMAN SERVICES, * Human Papillomavirus Vaccine

* (“HPV”); Acute Transverse Myelitis;

Respondent. * Molecular Mimicry.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Anthony M. Carr, Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., Concord, NH, for petitioner.

Adriana R. Teitel, U.S. Dept. of Justice, Washington, D.C., for respondent.

RULING ON ENTITLEMENT1

On December 15, 2015, Heidi White and David White (“petitioners”), on behalf of their

minor child, A.C.W., filed a petition in the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.2

Petitioners allege that A.C.W.3 developed transverse myelitis which was caused in fact by the

human papillomavirus vaccination (“HPV”) received on July 30, 2013. Petition at Preamble

1

In accordance with the E-Government Act of 2002, 44 U.S.C. § 3501 (2012), because this opinion contains a

reasoned explanation for the action in this case, this opinion will be posted on the website of the United States

Court of Federal Claims. This means the opinion will be available to anyone with access to the internet. As

provided by 42 U.S.C. § 300aa-12(d)(4)B), however, the parties may object to the published Decision’s inclusion of

certain kinds of confidential information. Specifically, under Vaccine Rule 18(b), each party has 14 days within

which to request redaction “of any information furnished by that party: (1) that is a trade secret or commercial or

financial in substance and is privileged or confidential; or (2) that includes medical files or similar files, the

disclosure of which would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of privacy.” Vaccine Rule 18(b). If neither

party files a motion for redaction within 14 days, the entire opinion will be posted on the website and available

to the public in its current form. Id.

2

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program is set forth in Part 2 of the National Childhood Vaccine

Injury Act of 1986, Pub. L. No. 99-660, 100 Stat. 3755, codified as amended, 42 U.S.C. §§ 300aa-10 to 34 (2012)

(hereinafter “Vaccine Act” or “the Act”). Hereinafter, individual section references will be to 42 U.S.C. § 300aa of

the Act.

3

Hereinafter, A.C.W. is referred as A.W. for the purposes of this decision.

(ECF No. 1). Based on a full review of the evidence and testimony presented, I find petitioners,

on behalf of A.W. is entitled to compensation.4

I. Procedural History

Petitioners, on behalf of A.W. filed their claim in the Vaccine Program on December 15,

2015. Petition (ECF No. 1). The petitioner filed medical records and an expert report by Dr.

Marcel Kinsbourne, M.D.5 by compact disc. (ECF No. 1). The undersigned held an initial status

conference on February 3, 2016. See Order (ECF No. 7). On March 14, 2016, respondent filed a

status report stating that he wanted to obtain an expert report and submit a Rule 4(c) report.

Respondent (“Resp.”) Status Report (ECF No. 8).

On May 16, 2016, respondent filed his Rule 4(c) report, recommending against

compensation. Resp. Report at 6. Respondent stated that A.W. did not meet the specific

diagnostic criteria for acute transverse myelitis. Resp. Report at 9. Respondent stated that “there

was no evidence of inflammation within A.W.’s spinal cord on her MRI, CSF analysis or other

laboratory tests.” Id. Therefore, respondent concluded, “even if Dr. Kinsbourne’s report and

theory is found to satisfy petitioner’s burden under Althen prong 1, it cannot be relied upon to

meet Althen prongs 2 and 3.” Id. The same day, respondent filed an expert report from Dr. Soe

S. Mar, M.D.6, a pediatric neurologist. Resp. Ex. A (ECF No. 13). Respondent also filed

medical literature Dr. Mar referenced in her report. Medical Literature (ECF Nos. 14-15).

4

Pursuant to Section 300aa-13(a)(1), in order to reach my conclusion, I have considered the entire record including

all of the medical records, statements, expert reports, and medical literature submitted by the parties. This opinion

discusses the elements of the record I found most relevant to the outcome.

5

Dr. Marcel Kinsbourne is a pediatric neurologist, and as seen in his curriculum vitae (“CV”), he received his

medical degree in England and has been licensed to practice medicine in North Carolina since 1967. Pet. Ex. 14 at

1-2. He has held a variety of academic positions over the course of his career, teaching and researching subjects

including neurology, psychology, pediatrics and occupational therapy. Id. at 2-3. Relevant to this case, his clinical

experience includes serving as a senior staff physician in Ontario, Canada from 1974-80 and as a clinical associate

in neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital from 1981-91. Id. He also was a lecturer on neurology at Harvard

University for the same time period. Id. He has published hundreds of articles on various neurological issues and

currently serves on the board of numerous editorial boards of medical literature publications. Id. at 3. Dr.

Kinsbourne has served as an expert in many other vaccine cases. Tr. 93. Respondent noted that Dr. Kinsbourne has

not been in clinical practice since 1992. Tr. 110. However, Dr. Kinsbourne has remained in teaching positions in

the field of neuroscience. Id. at 111. Petitioner offered Dr. Kinsbourne as an expert in this case in the field of

neurology and I admitted him as an expert in the field of neurology. Tr. 113.

6

Dr. Soe S. Mar is a pediatric neurologist and is currently the Residency Program Director of the Pediatric

Neurology Residency Training Program at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri.

Resp. Ex. I at 1-2. Dr. Mar currently treats children with demyelinating disease. Tr. 129. She also received her

medical degree in the United Kingdom and completed her pediatric residency at the Albert Einstein College of

Medicine in 2005. Id. She has served a pediatric neurologist since 2005 at the St. Louis Children’s Hospital and has

served as the medical director for the Pediatric onset Multiple Sclerosis, Other Demyelinating Diseases and

autoimmune Encephalitis Center. Id. at 1-2. She currently serves as an ad hoc reviewer for multiple medical

journals, including Pediatric Neurology and the Journal of Pediatrics. Id. at 4. Dr. Mar has published many articles

on pediatric neurology topics. Id. at 7-11. Respondent offered Dr. Mar as an expert in the field of pediatric

neurology and I admitted her as an expert in the field of pediatric neurology. Tr. 130.

2

On May 25, 2016, the undersigned held a Rule 5 status conference. Order (ECF No. 16).

During the status conference, I discussed the expert reports submitted by both parties.

Respondent’s counsel asserted that the issue of whether A.W. suffered transverse myelitis or

transverse myopathy was a significant issue, because if there was no inflammation of A.W.’s

spinal cord, then Dr. Kinsbourne’s theory would not apply. Order at 2. I ordered petitioner to

file a supplemental expert report addressing A.W.’s diagnosis based on the MRI readings and lab

reports, the likelihood of the diagnosis of transverse myelitis compared to transverse myopathy

(and explain transverse myopathy), as well as to supply additional evidence of homology

between Gardasil and the central nervous system to support the theory of molecular mimicry. Id.

Petitioner filed a supplemental report written by Dr. Kinsbourne on May 17, 2018.

Petitioner’s Exhibit (“Pet. Ex.”) 22 (ECF No. 49). Additionally, petitioner filed a report by Dr.

Lawrence Steinman, M.D.,7 a neurologist. Pet. Ex. 24 (ECF No. 49). Respondent filed a

responsive supplemental report by Dr. Neil D. Romberg8 and supporting medical literature on

January 27, 2017. Respondent’s Exhibit (“Resp. Ex.”) D (ECF No. 33); Resp. Exs. F1-F12 (ECF

Nos. 34-35). Respondent also filed a responsive supplemental report by Dr. Soe S. Mar on

February 9, 2017. Resp. Ex. G (ECF No. 36).

After reviewing the additional filings of both parties, the undersigned held another status

conference on March 23, 2017. During this status conference, I stated that both Dr. Kinsbourne

and Dr. Steinman addressed the questions posed after the last status conference and my

preliminary view was that petitioners have satisfied Althen prong one. Order at 1 (ECF No. 38).

Specifically, I stated that both the experts persuasively explained why they each accepted A.W.’s

treating physicians’ diagnosis of transverse myelitis. Id. at 2. I also noted that A.W.’s treating

physician, Dr. Mark Gorman, considered the association of transverse myelitis to the Gardasil

vaccine. Id. Further, I stated, “petitioners will likely be able to establish a diagnosis of

transverse myelitis and that Dr. Steinman has provided reasonable evidence of homology to

support a theory of molecular mimicry.” Id. I ordered the parties to attempt to resolve this case

informally, and if that could not be done, then to file a joint status report requesting a hearing.

Id. at 3.

7

Dr. Lawrence Steinman obtained his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, where he completed a

fellowship in chemical neurobiology. He completed a residency in pediatrics and neurology at Stanford University.

Pet. Ex. 25 at 1. He joined the faculty of Stanford in 1980, where he presently serves as the George A. Zimmerman

Professor of Neurological Sciences, Neurology, Genetics and Pediatrics. Id.; Tr. 60. Dr. Steinman chaired the

Immunology Department at Stanford for ten years. Tr. 61. Dr. Steinman has published extensively in peer-

reviewed journals on topics including neuroimmunology and GBS. Pet. Ex. 25. He has demonstrated expertise in

both a wide variety of central nervous system diseases (multiple sclerosis in particular) and immunologic issues. Tr.

61. Petitioner offered him as an expert in the fields of neurology and immunology and I admitted him as an expert

in the same fields without objection from respondent. Tr. 61-2.

8

Dr. Neil D. Romberg is board certified as an allergist and as a clinical immunologist and is currently an attending

physician in immunology at Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Resp. Ex. E at 1; Tr. 187-88. He

graduated Pennsylvania State College Medicine in 2004 and completed a pediatric residency at the New York

University School of Medicine in 2008. Dr. Romberg was an Allergy and Clinical Immunology Fellow at Yale

University from 2008-2011. Resp. Ex. E at 1. He currently serves as an ad-hoc reviewer for three medical journals,

including the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Id. at 2. Respondent offered Dr. Romberg as an expert

in allergy and immunology and I admitted him as an expert in the same fields. Tr. 188.

3

On May 24, 2017, respondent filed a status report stating that he was opposed to

engaging in settlement discussions and the parties will identify mutually-agreeable dates for an

entitlement hearing. Resp. Status Rept. (ECF No. 40). A hearing order was entered on July 18,

2017, setting an entitlement hearing for July 31, 2018-August 1, 2018. Hearing Order (ECF No.

45). Both parties briefed the case prior to the hearing. Pet. Prehearing Submission (ECF No.

56); Resp. Prehearing Submissions (ECF No. 61).

An entitlement hearing was held on July 31, 2018 in Washington, D.C. Petitioner, Heidi

White and A.W. offered fact testimony. Petitioner presented expert testimony from Dr.

Lawrence Steinman in person and Dr. Kinsbourne via videoconference. Respondent presented

expert testimony from Dr. Soe Mar and Dr. Neil Romberg. The parties submitted post-hearing

briefs addressing key issues raised during the entitlement hearing. See Pet. Post-Hearing Brief

(ECF No. 92); Resp. Post-Hearing Brief (ECF No. 97); and Pet. Post Hearing Response (ECF

No. 98).

This matter is now ripe for adjudication.

II. Legal Standard

The Vaccine Act was established to compensate vaccine-related injuries and deaths. §

300aa-10(a). “Congress designed the Vaccine Program to supplement the state law civil tort

system as a simple, fair and expeditious means for compensating vaccine-related injured persons.

The Program was established to award ‘vaccine-injured persons quickly, easily, and with

certainty and generosity.’” Rooks v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 35 Fed. Cl. 1, 7 (1996)

(quoting H.R. No. 908 at 3, reprinted in 1986 U.S.C.C.A.N. at 6287, 6344).

A petitioner bears the burden of establishing his or her entitlement to compensation from

the Vaccine Program. There are two avenues to compensation. The first requires the petitioner to

demonstrate a Table injury but that is not alleged in the present case. The second avenue requires

the petitioner to prove that a vaccine listed on the Vaccine Table was the cause-in-fact of the

injury.

To prove causation-in-fact, the petitioner must “show by preponderant evidence that the

vaccination brought about the injury by providing 1) a medical theory connecting the vaccination

and injury; 2) a logical sequence of cause and effect showing that the vaccination was the reason

for the injury; and 3) a showing of proximate temporal relationship between vaccination and

injury.” Althen v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 418 F. 3d 1274, 1278 (Fed. Cir. 2005).

There must be preponderant evidence for each Althen prong. Caves v. Sec’y of Health & Human

Servs., 100 Fed. Cl. 119, 132 (2011), aff. per curiam, 463 Fed. Appx. 932 (Fed. Cir. 2012)

The preponderance of the evidence standard requires demonstrating that it is “more likely

than not” that the vaccine caused the injury. Moberly v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 592

F.3d 1315, 1322 n.2 (Fed. Cir. 2010). Proof of medical certainty is not required. Bunting v.

Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 931 F.2d 867, 873 (Fed. Cir. 1991). A petitioner must

demonstrate that the vaccine was “not only [a] but for cause of the injury but also a substantial

factor in bringing about the injury.” Moberly, 592 F.3d at 1321 (quoting Shyface v. Sec’y of

4

Health & Human Servs., 135 F.3d 1344, 1352-53 (Fed. Cir. 1999); Pafford v. Sec’y of Health

and Human Servs., 451 F.3d 1352, 1355 (Fed. Cir. 2006). Causation is determined on a case-by-

case basis, with “no hard and fast per se scientific or medical rules.” Knudsen v. Sec’y of Health

& Human Servs., 35 F.3d 543, 548 (Fed. Cir. 1994). A fact-finder may rely upon “circumstantial

evidence” which is consistent with the “system created by Congress, in which close calls

regarding causation are resolved in favor of injured claimants.” Althen, 418 F. 3d at 1280.

A petitioner often presents expert testimony in support of his or her claim. Lampe v.

Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 219 F.3d 1357, 1361 (Fed. Cir. 2000). Expert testimony in the

Vaccine Program is usually evaluated according to the factors set forth in Daubert v. Merrell

Dow Pharm., Inc., 509 U.S. 579, 594-96 (1993); see also Cedillo, 617 F.3d at 1339 (citing

Terran v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 195 F.3d 1302, 1316 (Fed. Cir. 1999). A special

master may use the Daubert framework to evaluate the reliability of expert testimony, but expert

testimony need not meet each Daubert factor to be reliable. Boatmon v. Sec’y of Health &

Human Servs., 941 F.3d 1351 (Fed. Cir. 2019). The Daubert factors are “meant to be helpful,

not definitive,” and all factors “ ‘do not…necessarily apply even in every instance in which the

reliability of scientific testimony is challenged.’ ” Boatmon, 941 F. 3d at 1359 (citing Kumho

Tire Co. v. Carmichael, 526 U.S. 137, 151, 119 S. Ct. 1167, 143 L.Ed.2d 238 (1999). Thus, for

Vaccine Act claims, a “special master is entitled to require some indicia of reliability to support

the assertion of the expert witness.” Moberly at 1324. Where both sides offer expert testimony,

a special master’s decision may be “based on the credibility of the experts and the relative

persuasiveness of their competing theories.” Broekelschen v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs.,

219 F.3d 1339, 1347 (Fed. Cir. 2010) (citing Lampe, 219 F.3d 1357 at 1362).

Once a petitioner has proven causation by preponderant evidence, the burden shifts to

respondent to show by a preponderance of the evidence that the injury is due to factors unrelated

to the administration of the vaccine. Deribeaux v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 717 F.3d

1363, 1367 (Fed. Cir. 2013) (citing § 13(a)(1)(B)). Respondent has the burden of demonstrating

that “a factor unrelated to the vaccination is the more likely or principal cause of injury alleged.

Such a showing establishes that the factor unrelated, not the vaccination, was ‘principally

responsible’ for the injury. If the evidence or alternative cause is seen in equipoise, then the

government has failed in its burden of persuasion and compensation must be awarded.”

Knudsen, 35 F.3d at 551.

III. Summary of Relevant Facts

On January 7, 2013, A.W. had her eleven-year old well visit with Dr. Jennifer Jones. Pet.

Ex. 9 at 26-29. At this visit, A.W.’s physical exam was normal. Id. Aside from expressing

concern of occasional feelings of dizziness while running during gym class, Dr. Jones described

A.W. as a “healthy child,” with normal growth and development. Id. at 29. A.W. also received

her first HPV vaccine, as well as, a Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (“Tdap”) and meningococcal

vaccine. Id. at 30; Pet. Ex. 2 at 1. A.W. returned to her pediatrician’s office on March 29, 2013

for her second HPV vaccination. Id. at 32. On July 30, 2013, A.W. received her third HPV

vaccination. Id. at 33.

5

On August 26, 2013, A.W. began her first day of seventh grade. Tr. 8; Pet. Ex. 3 at 1.

Mrs. White testified that A.W. was very athletic and active and into gymnastics, tennis and

basketball. Tr. 8. She explained that when A.W. returned from her first day of seventh grade,

A.W. told her, “it was the best school day she ever had, [the] best first day of school she had ever

had.” Tr. 10. That evening, A.W. played basketball with her brother, took a shower and went to

read a book on her bed while waiting for dinner. Id. Mrs. White stated, “suddenly [A.W.]

screamed out in pain.” Tr. 11. A.W. testified that it “was the worst pain” she had ever felt and

described it as “really sharp” in her “upper back.” Tr. 43. Her parents gave her a heating pad

and Advil, initially thinking A.W. had a muscle spasm or pinched nerve. Tr. 11, 44. After

dinner, A.W. began to complain about her arms feeling weird. Tr. 11. A.W. testified that her

arms felt “floaty” and that when she raised her arms above her head “they would just fall.” Tr.

44. A.W. took another shower to reduce the pain in her back. Id. A.W. explained that when she

went to get clothes, she could not open her drawers and called her father for assistance. Id. At

that point, A.W.’s father drove her to the emergency department at Exeter Hospital. Tr. 13.

A.W. arrived at the emergency department (“ED”) of Exeter Hospital at 11:20 PM EST

the same day. Pet. Ex. 3 at 1. By the time she arrived at the hospital, A.W.’s weakness had

spread to her feet and she had difficulty walking. Id. A physical exam in the ED showed A.W.

had altered sensation to light touch on the right and left torso, bilateral arms and legs. Id. at 2.

A.W. was unable to grip and demonstrated weak hip and knee flexion, weak wrist flexion and

her fingers were held flexed. Id. at 2-3. A CT scan of A.W.’s cervical and thoracic spine were

ordered. Id. at 4. The attending physician, Dr. Heidi Blake, stated, “This is an 11 year-old with

symptoms suggestive of incomplete cord level C5-6. There is no history of fever, rash, bite or

trauma. Onset with acute pain is concerning for transverse myelitis.” Id. at 4. Dr. Blake

contacted Boston Children’s Hospital (“BCH”) and arranged A.W.’s transfer by ambulance to

BCH. Id.

A.W. was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (“ICU”) at BCH on August 27, 2013. Pet.

Ex. 4 at 604. When she arrived at BCH, A.W. demonstrated decreased sensation on the left side

of her face compared to the right; she had decreased strength bilaterally in her triceps and grip

strength; demonstrated bilateral weakness in the lower extremities; and she had to use her right

hand to lift her left hand to her nose. Id. at 602. The attending physician in the ICU, Dr. Amy

Sanderson, assessed A.W. with a “serious condition,” and ordered an MRI of A.W.’s spine to

assess for “an abnormality that could explain the patient’s symptoms.” Id. A.W. had a

neurology consult with Dr. Rejean Guerriero, a pediatric neurology resident on August 27, 2013

at 12:26 pm. Id. at 651. He noted that A.W.’s “legs are held in paretic fashion. Unable to asses

pronator drift or fine motor movements.” A physical exam revealed she had “decreased pinprick

from T2 down on the back, decreased T7 down on the front. Decreased sensation on flank and

back compared with front and periumbilical area. Id. at 652. Decreased sensation in UE and LE

to pinprick and temp, left greater a greater extent than right in diffuse pattern. Intact

proprioception in LE.” Id. Dr. Guerriero reviewed A.W.’s MRI and stated, “An MRI of the

cervical and thoracic spine was obtained that reveals an anterior cord T2 hyperintensity with very

mild cord swelling, and no enhancement would be consistent with transverse myelitis.” Id. at

653. He wrote, “Her exam this morning appears to be worsening a bit raising concern that she

has greater deficits than early changes on the MRI reveal.” Id. Dr. Mark Libenson, the ICU

attending neurologist concurred with Dr. Guerriero’s assessment of A.W. and wrote, “The

6

clinical presentation is most consistent with transverse myelitis, beginning with back pain

followed by extremity paresthesia. She appears to have advanced since her early morning exam

now with near complete weakness of the RLE and little to no movement in the ankle….Agree

with plan above for high dose steroids, LP,(lumbar puncture) brain MRI, ID (presumably

infectious disease) and serological testing.” Id. at 654. A.W. was started on high dose

methylprednisolone9 for a five-day course. Id. at 610.

On August 29, 2013, A.W. was transferred out of the ICU to the pediatric floor. Id. at

611. While in the hospital, A.W. was tested for various infections, including Epstein-Bar Virus

(“EBV”), adenovirus, serum titers for Lyme, enterovirus and West Nile Virus. Id. All viral

studies were negative. Id. Additionally, serum studies for auto-immune conditions were

performed and the findings were “unremarkable.” Id. at 611. A.W.’s IgG was mildly elevated

but her IgM and IgA were normal. Id. On September 1, 2013, A.W. was evaluated by Dr. Peter

Tzu-Shin, neurologist, who noted that A.W.’s CSF was “clean,” making an infectious etiology

very unlikely, but he opined that an “autoimmune process remains quite possible.” Id. at 383.

He also noted that her ANA and SS-B have returned negative. Id. He stated, “11 year-old with

clinical and imaging findings most consistent with transverse myelitis,” and recommended a

repeat MRI, continue steroid and plasmapheresis if A.W. did not significantly improve. Id. at

384. After the five-day course of IV steroids, she began an oral course of steroids. Id. She had

some improvement in her lower extremity strength and sensation, but her arms remained

“significantly affected.” Id.

On August 30, 2013, A.W. was seen by Dr. Mark Gorman, Director of Pediatric

Neuroimmunology at Boston Children’s Hospital, who assumed management of her care from

that point forward. Pet. Ex. 4 at 647. He reviewed her history of present illness and noted,

“[A.W.] received Gardasil #3 on 7/30/13. She had moderate local pain with injections #1 and #2

but no other symptoms. No recent illnesses or travel.” Dr. Gorman examined A.W. and

observed that she was experiencing significant distal weakness compared to proximal and it was

greater on the right side. Id. at 648. He noted she had decreased sensation to cold temperatures

in all limbs and absent vibration sensation in her toes and ankles with markedly decrease in her

knees and fingers. Id. In his assessment and recommendations, Dr. Gorman wrote:

11 year-old girl with sudden onset of back pain followed by motor and sensory changes

affecting all four limbs peaking at about 12-18 hours from onset. History also suggests

bladder and bowl dysfunction…Differential includes inflammatory transverse myelitis,

ischemic spinal cord infarct, and fibrocartiagenous embolism….I think inflammatory TM

most likely diagnosis.

Id. at 649. Dr. Gorman recommended a repeat MRI with contrast, stating, “If clear signs of

ischemia, this would alter management. If no signs of ischemia, would presume inflammatory

TM even if still no contrast enhancement especially as treated with steroids.” Id. He also

9

Methylprednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid derived from progesterone used in replacement therapy for

adrenocortical insufficiency and as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant in a wide variety of disorders;

administered orally. Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary 32nd ed. (2012) (hereinafter “Dorland’s”) at 1154.

Dorland’s at 1154.

7

ordered additional labs to test for mycoplasma IgM and IgG, West Nile virus, anticardiolipin

antibodies and beta 2 glycoprotein antibodies. Id. He also recommended that if A.W. does not

have marked improvement she should undergo five cycles of plasmapheresis.10 Beginning on

September 5, 2013, A.W. was treated with plasmapheresis and it ended on September 13, 2013.

Id. at 611.

A.W. underwent an additional MRI on August 31, 2013. Id. at 259-60. This MRI

showed a “contiguous T2 prolongation within the cervical cord that has enlarged in both size and

signal intensity, extending from C4-T1.” Id. at 259. The impression was, “Interval evolution of

T2 signal abnormalities of the spinal cord from C4-T11, without associated enhancement. Most

likely represents transverse myelitis.” Id. at 260. According to the discharge document, “This

study showed the evolution of her lesion, but there were no findings consistent with infarction.”

Id. at 611.

Through her hospital course, A.W. slowly improved. See Pet. Ex. 4 at 339, 388, 391,

611. A.W. also participated in physical therapy while in the hospital. Id. at 521-93, 611. A.W.

made steady improvement in her lower extremity strength, however, had slower improvement in

her distal upper extremity strength and dexterity. Id. at 351, 339, 387, 611. An EMG/nerve

conduction study was performed on September 13, 2013. Id. at 214. The right median and ulnar

motor studies demonstrated reduced amplitudes; the right peroneal F response was absent; tibial

H reflex was absent; and the concentric needle examination demonstrated no voluntary motor

units in the right first dorsal interosseous with occasional positive sharp waves at the right

biceps. Id. The conclusion of the study was an “abnormal study,” with electrophysiologic

evidence suggestive of a mild to moderate motor neuronopathy or motor neuropathy affecting

the upper extremities. Id. This finding was “consistent with [A.W.’s] known diagnosis of

transverse myelitis,” and there was no evidence to suggest concurrent peripheral neuropathy. Id.

A.W. was discharged from BCH on September 16, 2013 with a diagnosis of transverse

myelitis and she was to follow up with Dr. Mark Gorman. Id. at 613. She was also prescribed a

steroid tapering plan over a five-week period. Id. at 611. On the day A.W. was discharged, she

had “full strength in her left side and right lower extremity. She had mild weakness in her right

upper extremity and notable weakness in her distal right upper extremity.” Id. The discharge

document stated that she had an MRI scan with diffusion sequence that did not find any signs of

infarction. Id. It also noted that testing was performed for adenovirus, Lyme disease, CMV,

Epstein-Bar virus, mycoplasma, enterovirus and West Nile virus which were all negative. Id.

On September 24, 2013, A.W. had her first follow-up appointment since being

discharged from BCH with Dr. Gorman. Id. at 196. At this visit, A.W. reported she continued to

experience tingling in her fingertips and that the bottom of her feet and toes were numb. Id.

A.W. reported that she “continued to have altered sensation on the left side of her back.” Id.

Additionally, A.W. explained that she was unable to dress herself and required significant

assistance with activities of daily living (“ADLs”). Id. A physical exam showed A.W. had

decreased strength in her right triceps and bicep, decreased right wrist extension; decreased

10

Plasmapheresis is the removal of plasma from withdrawn blood, with retransfusion of the formed elements into

the donor; generally, type-specific fresh frozen plasma or albumin is used to replace the withdrawn plasma.

Dorland’s at 1456.

8

finger extension and abduction bilaterally; and leg strength 5/5 throughout. Id. at 197. Further,

A.W. demonstrated decreased sensation to vibration in her toes bilaterally and decreased joint

position sensation. Id. A.W. had “significantly decreased temperature sensation in the left leg,”

and “decreased sensation to light touch in the right upper extremity, right abdomen, and left

lower back to approximately T6.” Id.

Dr. Gorman described A.W. as “an 11-year old young woman with active transverse

myelitis.” Id. Dr. Gorman noted A.W.’s upper extremity limitations to be, “…significant

enough to recommend additional immune therapy.” Id. A.W. was prescribed IVIG as an

outpatient with a total of 2gm/kg over a two-day course. Id.

On October 1, 2013, A.W. had the first of two IVIG treatments for her [diagnosis] of

transverse myelitis. Id. at 146. She had her second treatment on October 2, 2013. Id. A.W. had

another appointment with Dr. Gorman on October 9, 2013. Id. at 93. He noted that

approximately four days after the IVIG treatment, A.W. began to notice improvement in the

strength of her fingers. Id. A.W. was able to extend and abduct her fingers. Id. Upon a

physical exam, A.W. demonstrated decreased muscle tone in the distal arms bilaterally. Id. at

94. She again had decreased sensation to temperature in the left leg up to the T6 level. Id. Dr.

Gorman wrote, “[A.W.] is a 12-year old girl with acute transverse myelitis now six weeks ago.

She has made dramatic improvements and continues to improve in her hands and fingers….At

this point in time I did not recommend any further immunotherapy as she has received intensive

treatments and this is most likely to be a monophasic condition.” Id. Dr. Gorman ordered a

repeat MRI “six months from onset,” unless other concerns arise sooner. Id. at 95.

On November 18, 2013, A.W. had a repeat MRI on her cervical and thoracic spine. Id. at

55. The MRI revealed a, “circumscribed T2 signal abnormality seen within the cervical spinal

cord extending from C5-C7, consistent with cystic myelomalacia evolved from the previous area

of demyelination. Previously this area of signal abnormality was more patchy and ill-defined,

now it is chronic appearing and well defined.” Id. at 55. The impression was, “Evolution of the

previously seen patchy signal abnormality within the lower cervical spinal cord, now defined,

chronic and encephalomalacic11 in appearance. Signal abnormality within the cervical spinal

cord from C2-C5-6, not apparent on the prior examination suggestive of additional cord

involvement.” No associated enhancement was observed. Id. at 56.

On November 20, 2013, A.W. had another appointment with Dr. Gorman. Id. at 40. At

this appointment, A.W.’s mother reported that A.W. was limping and having trouble initiating

voiding two days prior to the appointment. Id. A.W. reported intermittent muscle

tightening/cramping throughout the day and that her arms, legs and hands clench unprovoked.

Id. A physical exam of A.W. showed she had mildly increased bilateral ankle tone, continued

decreased finger extension and abduction bilaterally and her sensation to light touch was in-tact.

Id. at 41. Additionally, A.W. was able to sense minimal cold in the left foot, which was an

improvement. Id.

Dr. Gorman reviewed the MRI from November 18, 2013. He observed that, “There was

new signal abnormality in the cervical spine. However, there is no enhancement and currently

11

Encephalomalacia is the softening of the brain, especially that caused by an infarct. Dorland’s at 613.

9

no changes in her exam, so we do not feel that this is an acute change, but rather something that

had evolved over the course of her illness though difficult to time precisely. More concerning is

the original lesion which is now encephalomalacic in appearance.” Id. at 42. Dr. Gorman

explained that this means that “…it is unlikely that [A.W.] will regain 100% function and is

likely to have permanent deficits, though it is difficult to know to what extent.” Id.

On December 18, 2013, A.W. met with Dr. Marc Cendrom, urologist, for urinary

incontinence. Pet. Ex. 8 at 227. Dr. Cendrom noted, “Since the onset of the transverse myelitis,

[A.W.] reports that she has a very mild incontinence during the daytime…” Id. After a physical

exam and a review of system, he opined that A.W. may be experiencing bladder spasms, as she

had reported arm spasms. Id. He recommended she start a mild anticholinergic. Id. A.W. had

two follow-up appointments with Dr. Cendrom on March 3, 2014 and July 18, 2014. Pet. Ex. 8

at 85, 156-57.

A.W. had a repeat MRI on February 3, 2014. Pet. Ex. 8 at 207. The cervical MRI found,

“…the T2 hyperintensity involving the cervical cord from approximately C5-C7, level,

measuring approximately 1.6 cm in length. The maximal transverse dimension is 0.6 cm

(measured at the C5 level).” Id. There was no evidence of abnormal enhancement with

intravenous infusion of contrast. Id. at 208. The impression of the MRI was, “No interval

change in the appearance of the spinal cord since the previous exam dated 11/18/2013. There

remains focal T2 hyperintensity involving the cervical cord extending from C5-C7 with ill-

defined T2 prolongation extending superiorly to the level of C2, unchanged.” Id. Dr. Gorman

requested that A.W.’s mother be notified that the “MRI was stable,” on February 4, 2014. Id. at

203. On February 5, 2014, the MRI results were reported to A.W.’s mother. Id. at 202. At that

time, Mrs. White reported that A.W. was experiencing increased headaches and her temperature

regulation was off. Id.

On February 12, 2014, A.W. had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Gorman. Id. at 189.

Dr. Gorman noted that A.W. was having “a variety of bothersome symptoms referable to the

prior myelitis…” Id. These symptoms included headaches that began in December, heat

intolerance, hand spasms, pruritus, left leg myoclonus, allodynia, and fatigue. Id. at 189-190.

After a physical exam, he stated that “A.W. is a 12-year old girl with acute transverse myelitis.

She has made dramatic improvement since the peak of her illness. Although there [have] been

some fluctuations in her symptoms over the past [three] months and her MRI has evolved,

overall I think this is still a monophasic, albeit severe, myelitis.” Id. at 191. He recommended

she begin gabapentin. Id. He also recommended she continue physical and occupational

therapy. Id.

A.W. continued to have follow-up appointments with Dr. Gorman and repeat MRIs in

2014. See Pet. Ex. 8 at 69-71, 97-99. Dr. Gorman continued to treat A.W. for “acute transverse

myelitis,” noting that she has made dramatic improvements since the peak of her illness, but still

suffered from scattered weakness and sensory symptoms. Id. at 70. He noted that the MRI from

November 18, 2013, showed “signal abnormality within the cervical spinal cord from C2-C5-6,

not apparent on the prior examination suggestive of additional cord involvement,” but he “felt

that the apparently new involvement from C2 to C6 likely had appeared closer to the onset of her

10

myelitis rather than reflecting an acute change proximate to the follow-up MRI.” Id. at 69. Dr.

Gorman noted that her MRIs since November 18, 2013 did not reflect any changes. Id. at 70.

On August 27, 2014, A.W. had an appointment with Dr. Donald Bae, orthopedist, for a

follow-up evaluation. Pet. Ex. 8 at 61. A.W. reported persistent weakness in her right triceps

and dysesthetic type symptoms on the dorsal aspect of her right hand that A.W. described as

“burning, tingling and itching.” Id. She demonstrated decreased strength in her right triceps and

active wrist extension and radial deviation. Id. at 61. A.W. had active wrist extension and good

digital flexors and extensors in her right upper extremity. Id. An examination of her knee and

lower leg revealed some mild medial joint line tenderness mostly over her MDL, but was

negative for apprehension and patellar grind sign. Id. An EMG/nerve conduction study was

ordered. Id.

A.W. continued to have appointments with Dr. Gorman and at the BCH Orthopedic clinic

from 2014 through 2018. See Pet. Exs. 20, 30 and 38.

Notably, on January 20, 2016, A.W. had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Gorman. Pet.

Ex. 20 at 1. He recounted her history and noted that A.W. has “recovered significantly but has

residual scattered weakness, sensory changes and pain.” Id. Her physical exam showed A.W.

had decreased muscle tone in the distal arms bilaterally and mild atrophy in the hands, left more

than the right. Id. at 2. A.W. demonstrated some deficits in her ability to extend her fingers in

her hands and had decreased sensation to vibration in her big toes bilaterally. Id. Dr. Gorman

reviewed the MRI from January 11, 2016 and noted, “Stable appearance of myelomalacia

involving the lower cervical cord. No new signal abnormality or abnormal enhancement in the

spinal cord to suggest active or interval inflammation/demyelination.” Dr. Gorman reiterated

that A.W. has a history of transverse myelitis with an onset of August 2013. Id. at 3. He

explained that A.W. still experiences scattered weakness, sensory symptoms (numbness and

allodynia) and mild headaches. Id. A follow-up appointment was scheduled for six-months

later.

A.W. had another MRI of the cervicothoracic spine on January 12, 2017. Pet. Ex. 30 at

7-8. This MRI revealed that A.W.’s spinal cord, “remains notable for high T2, nearly fluid

signal intensity at C4-C7.” Id. at 8. The high T2 signal begins at the right C4, involves the

central cord and dorsal columns at C5, and extends to the left at C6-C7, unchanged since

December 2014. Id. The impression was, “Stable pattern of myelomalacia involving the lower

cervical cord. No new signal abnormality or abnormal enhancement in the spinal cord to suggest

active or interval inflammation/demyelination.” Additionally, mild, partially visualized

thoracolumbar S-shaped scoliosis was observed. Id.

At a follow-up appointment with Dr. Gorman on January 25, 2017, he explained that he

did not have any concerns for a relapse of myelitis. Id. at 11. During the physical exam, A.W.

had a positive Lhermitte’s sign.12 Id. at 10. She demonstrated brisk reflexes at the biceps

12

Lhermitte’s sign is the sudden development of transient, electric-like shocks spreading down the body when the

patient flexes the head forward; seen mainly in multiple sclerosis but also in compression and other disorders of the

cervical cord. Dorland’s at 1713.

11

bilaterally, triceps bilaterally and in the knees bilaterally. Id. She had right ankle clonus with

stretching and her toes were mute on the left and up on the right. Id. He once again noted her

“dramatic improvement since the peak of her illness,” and stated that she still experienced

“scattered weakness and sensory symptoms.” Id. He asked that she follow-up in two weeks with

an update on her headaches and discussed an option to increase gabapentin. Id.

On May 24, 2017, A.W. had another appointment with Dr. Bae. Pet. Ex. 30 at 17. A.W.

reported that since her last appointment with him, her triceps strength has improved, but that she

experiences “persistent tremulousness and sensations of spasms in her hands.” Id. The physical

exam revealed that A.W.’s triceps strength on the right was weak and an “obvious ulnar

subluxing extensor tendons to the long and ring finger on the left hand,” was observed. Id.

Additionally, mild tremulousness was appreciated. Id. Dr. Bae, A.W. and Mrs. White discussed

surgical intervention for stabilization of the tendon. Id. Dr. Bae explained the nature, risks and

benefits of surgical intervention and the family decided to proceed with scheduling the tendon

stabilization. Id. at 18.

A.W. had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Gorman and Dr. Grace Gombolay, a

pediatric neuroimmunology fellow, on July 26, 2017. Id. at 21. Since A.W.’s last visit with Dr.

Gorman in January, she reported twitches in both hands, with the left being worse than the right.

Id. Dr. Gombolay noted that A.W. still experienced sensory symptoms (including numbness and

allodynia) and scattered weakness. Id. at 23. Dr. Gombolay’s physical exam findings were

essentially the same as the findings from January. Id. Dr. Gombolay explained A.W.’s hand

twitches are fasciculations13 and described them as “sequelae of her transverse myelitis.” Id. Dr.

Gombolay also noted that A.W. was to have tendon tethering surgery the following month. Id. at

21.

On August 18, 2017, A.W. underwent a left long and ring finger tendon stabilization. Id.

at 25. In a January 31, 2018 visit with Dr. Gorman, he noted that the tendon tethering for the

fourth digit on her left hand failed, but the third digit on her left hand was intact and a repeat

surgery may be considered in the future. Pet. Ex. 30 at 46.

A.W. also underwent a neuropsychological evaluation by Dr. Ferne Pinard, PhD at BCH.

Id. at 29. Dr. Pinard noted that fatigue continued to be an issue for A.W. Id. at 31. She reported

that A.W.’s overall cognitive ability is in the high-average range. Id. at 34. A.W.’s reasoning,

vocabulary knowledge, problem solving for structured tasks and memory skills were well

developed and although A.W. exhibited mild anxiety, there were no significant concerns about

A.W.’s social, emotional or behavioral functioning. Id. However, A.W. demonstrated issues

with focusing and sustaining attention. Id. at 35. Dr. Pinard described A.W.’s profile as

“consistent with her neurological history. Research indicates that in addition to fine-motor

problems, children diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis also exhibit difficulties in attention, and

memory and to a lesser extent, processing speed and verbal fluency.” Id.

On August 8, 2018, Dr. Gorman had a follow-up appointment with A.W. Pet. Ex. 38 at

102. He noted that since her last visit in January 2018, A.W. was “overall about the same,” but

13

A small local contraction of muscles, visible through the skin, representing a spontaneous discharge of a number

of fibers innervated by a single motor nerve filament. Dorland’s at 682.

12

A.W. continued to have issues with painful locking of her fingers in her left hand and her right

knee locking, fatigue and random jolt-like-pain. Id. Her physical exam findings were consistent

with the previous exam. Id. at 103. Dr. Gorman noted that an MRI from August 3, 2018 showed

“stable myelomalacia involving the cervical cord from C4 through C6. No new lesions are seen.”

Id. at 104. Dr. Gorman, again, concluded his appointment report, stating that A.W. has a history

of transverse myelitis with an onset of August 2013. Id. He stated that “Now that she is five

years out from her presentation, and the risk of recurrence is very low, I do not think she needs

surveillance imaging any longer unless she develops new symptoms or signs.” Id.

IV. Analysis

A. Petitioner’s Diagnosis

The first issue to be resolved is A.W.’s diagnosis. The respondent disputed petitioner’s

diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis. See Pet. Prehearing Brief at 1 (ECF No. 56); Resp.

Prehearing Brief at 2 (ECF No. 61).

Petitioners alleged that A.W. suffered acute transverse myelitis as a result of receiving

the third dose of HPV vaccine on July 30, 2013. Petition at Preamble. Petitioners stated that

A.W. was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis by Dr. Mark Gorman, the “Director of the

Pediatric Neuroimmunology Program,” at Boston Children’s Hospital. Pet. Prehearing at 3.

Additionally, petitioner asserted that Dr. Gorman is board certified by the American Board of

Psychiatry and Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology. Id. at 3. Petitioner

stated Dr. Gorman’s diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis from September 2013 was reaffirmed

in the many outpatient visits he had with A.W. following her hospitalization. Id. at 4. Petitioner

argued that respondent’s experts’ make post-hoc challenges to Dr. Gorman’s diagnosis, which

are speculative and should be given little weight. Id.

Respondent acknowledged A.W.’s diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis by Dr. Gorman

but asserted that “the clinical record is inconsistent with the diagnostic criteria for acute

transverse myelitis.” Resp. Prehearing Brief at 2. Respondent argued that A.W.’s condition is

“more precisely classified as acute idiopathic transverse myelitis without evidence of

inflammation.” Id. Specifically, respondent argued that the term “acute inflammatory transverse

myelitis or ATM is the proper term only when the presence of inflammation in the spinal cord

has been confirmed.” Resp. Post-Hearing Brief at 12 (ECF No. 97). Respondent’s expert also

raised the issue of whether A.W. may have add acute flaccid myelitis.

Both parties’ experts provided reports, medical literature and testified on the issue of

A.W.’s diagnosis.

1. Acute Transverse Myelitis (ATM)

The medical literature submitted by both parties that focused on the characteristics of

acute transverse myelitis (“ATM”), including clinical signs and symptoms to base a diagnosis of

ATM were essentially consistent.

13

Transverse myelitis is defined as a “focal inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord and

exists on a spectrum of neuroinflammatory conditions characterized by abrupt neurologic deficits

associated with inflammation, demyelination and axonal damage.” Resp. Ex. C-6 at 1.14 The

article by Kerr and Ayetey15 defines acute transverse myelitis as a, “process affecting a restricted

area of the spinal cord.” Pet. Ex. 28-4 at 2. The article continues, stating that acute transverse

myelitis, “is characterized clinically by acutely or subacutely developing symptoms and signs of

neurological dysfunction in motor, sensory and autonomic nerve and nerve tracts of the spinal

cord. There is often a clearly defined rostral border of sensory dysfunction and a spinal [MRI]

and lumbar puncture shows evidence of acute inflammation.” Id. at 2-3. The article by Sellner

et al.,16 submitted by the respondent, states that “the diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis

syndromes is based on the clinical symptoms with evidence of inflammation within the spinal

cord such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) abnormalities or lesions visible on MRIs.” Resp. Ex. F-

04 at 1.

Acute clinical characteristics include sensory loss or numbness in limbs, weakness,

urinary dysfunction and pain in the initial phase of ATM. Pet. Ex.27-3 at 317; Pet. Ex. 28-4 at 2;

Resp. Ex. F-04. In an analysis of 47 cases of children under the age of 18 diagnosed with ATM,

twenty-three children described sensory complaints of burning, tingling or electric shock

sensations and twenty-seven described disquieting numbness. Pet. Ex. 27-3 at 3. The article

stated that “the mean time from the onset of acute symptoms to functional nadir was about two

days in these children.” Id. at 3.

2. Respondent’s Experts’ Opinions Regarding A.W.’s Diagnosis

Respondent’s experts disagreed with A.W.’s diagnosis of ATM and offered alternative

diagnoses. Dr. Romberg largely deferred to Dr. Soe Mar regarding A.W.’s diagnosis. Resp.

Post-Hearing Brief at 13. The respondent’s experts’ opinions regarding A.W.’s diagnosis of

ATM were consistent with one another.

Dr. Mar stated that A.W. did not meet the criteria for ATM, as there was no evidence of

inflammation within the spinal cord. Resp. Ex. A at 3. Dr. Mar continued, stating that A.W.

“did not have any cells in her CSF, elevated IgG index or gadolinium enhancement,” which

would presumably be evidence of inflammation. Id. Dr. Mar referenced the Transverse Myelitis

Consortium Working Group’s (“TMCWG”) proposed diagnostic criteria for idiopathic acute

transverse myelitis, which provides:

14

Kaplin et al., IL-6 induces regionally selective spinal cord injury in patients with neuroinflammatory disorder

transverse myelitis, 115 J. Clin. Invest. 2731-2741 (2005) [Resp. Ex. C-6].

15

Douglas A. Kerr & Harold Ayetey, Immunopathogenesis of acute transverse myelitis, 15 Curr. Opinion. Neurol.

339-347 (2002) [Pet. Ex. 28-4].

16

J. Sellner et al., Diagnosis workup of patients with acute transverse myelitis: spectrum of clinical presentation,

neuroimaging and laboratory findings, 47 Spinal Cord 312-317 (2009) [Resp. Ex. F-04].

17

F.S. Pidcock et al., Acute transverse myelitis in childhood, 68 Neurology, 1474-1480 (2007) [Pet. Ex. 27-3].

14

“Development of sensory, motor or autonomic dysfunction attributable to the spinal cord;

bilateral signs and/or symptoms (though not symmetric); clearly defined sensory level; exclusion

of extra-axial compressive etiology by neuroimaging (MRI or myelography; CT of spine

adequate); inflammation within the spinal cord demonstrated by CSF pleocytosis or elevated IgG

index or gadolinium enhancement. If none of the inflammatory criteria is met at symptom onset,

repeat MRI and lumbar puncture evaluation between 2 and 7 days following symptom onset

meet criteria; and progression to nadir between 4 hours and 21 days following the onset of

symptoms.”

Resp. Ex. A. at 4; see also Resp. Ex. C-01.18

The purpose of the TMCWG’s proposed criteria was to distinguish between idiopathic

acute transverse myelitis from ATM secondary to a known underlying disease. Resp. Ex. C-01

at 1. In her second report, Dr. Mar emphasized that “inflammatory markers for transverse

myelitis, for which there is a consensus in the medical/neurological scientific community, are

inflammatory cells in CSF, elevated IgG or gadolinium enhancement.” She said, “one of these

markers must be present, prior to making a definitive diagnosis of transverse myelitis. None of

these were present in [A.W.’s] history.” Resp. Ex. G at 1. Dr. Mar opined that A.W.’s clinical

findings do not fulfill the TMCWG’s criteria for idiopathic acute transverse myelitis, but are

“more consistent with “acute transverse myelopathy,” or “ ‘possible acute transverse myelitis.’ ”

Resp. Ex. A at 10.

At the hearing, consistent with her reports, Dr. Mar continued to question A.W.’s

diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis. Tr. 131-84. Dr. Mar testified that she “disagreed that

[A.W.] had inflammatory transverse myelitis,” as she did not see any evidence of inflammation

through the inflammatory markers required by the TMCWG’s proposed criteria. Tr. 137. Dr.

Mar testified that A.W.’s condition began with severe acute back pain which progressed rapidly

into her arms, followed by her legs within a few hours. Id. The lumbar puncture revealed,

“normal cells, normal protein, normal glucose, and negative IgG index19…no evidence of any

inflammatory components.” Id. She explained that in her experience, in a case like A.W.’s with

severe rapid acute progression, she would have expected inflammatory markers to be present.

Tr. 139.Dr. Mar testified that the lack of inflammatory markers in A.W.’s lumbar puncture was

“inconsistent,” with the diagnosis of inflammatory acute transverse myelitis, according to the

TMCWG’s criteria. Id.

Dr. Mar further questioned A.W.’s diagnosis of ATM because A.W.’s initial MRI did not

have evidence of enhancement. Tr. 139. Instead, Dr. Mar stated that A.W.’s initial MRI taken

on August 27th showed the central cord hyperintensity from C4 to T1 as primarily affecting the

gray matter, which was more consistent with acute flaccid myelitis or a stroke. Tr. 140-41; see

also Pet. Ex. 4 at 710. She explained that demyelination generally is a disease of the white

matter and in A.W.’s case, the MRI noted involvement of gray matter. Tr. 142. She opined, “it

would be very unusual” for inflammatory ATM to mainly involve the gray matter. Tr. 143. Dr.

18

Transverse Myelitis Working Group, Proposed diagnostic criteria and nosology of acute transverse myelitis, 59

Neurology, 499-505 (2002) [Resp. Ex. C-01].

19

A.W.’s IgG was mildly elevated and mild swelling of the cord was observed on the MRI. Pet. Ex. 4 at 611, 653.

15

Mar acknowledged that the MRI taken three months later, on November 18, 2013, revealed a

more clearly-defined T2 signal abnormality seen in the cervical spinal cord extending from C5-

C7, consistent with cystic myelomalacia “evolved from the previous area of demyelination.” Tr.

153; Pet. Ex. 4 at 55.

Additionally, Dr. Mar stated that A.W.’s symptoms of weakness was “quite different”

from ATM cases she had seen. Tr. 143. She testified that in cases of regular ATM, spasticity in

the lower extremities is more present than in A.W.’s case. Id. Dr. Mar explained that in cases of

ATM where inflammation causes the transverse myelitis, children are left with leg weakness. Id.

Typically, in ATM when the cord is inflamed, the proximal muscles are more affected than the

distal muscles. Tr. 145. Dr. Mar testified that on physical exams A.W.’s hand muscles were

weak compared to her proximal muscles, which is unusual. Id.; Pet. Ex. 4 at 651. Dr. Mar stated

that the notation in the neurology consult while A.W. was in the ICU stating, “Intact

proprioception20 in lower extremities,” is unusual because proprioception is supplied by the

dorsal part of the spinal cord, and when inflammation is occurring, this area would be very

affected. Tr. 145. Dr. Mar opined that this sensory finding was more consistent with a stroke

affecting the anterior spinal artery area sparing the posterior part. Tr. 146.

Dr. Mar also theorized that A.W. may have suffered from acute flaccid myelitis, which

she acknowledged was not well known until 2014. Tr. 161, 228. She explained that A.W.’s

anterior horn cell of the spinal cord appeared to be permanently affected, which is consistent

with acute flaccid myelitis. Tr. 161. Additionally, Dr. Mar explained, “given the fact that

[A.W.] has got very patchy distribution of distal muscles in different areas, with a reduced tone

distally, makes me worried-in combination with a spinal cord injury [where the] the horn cell

was permanently involved,” it may be an early acute flaccid myelitis case. Tr. 161-62. Dr. Mar

testified that she could not prove or disprove a possible diagnosis of acute flaccid myelitis. Tr.

162.

In both her reports and testimony, Dr. Mar acknowledged that she did not question Dr.

Gorman’s clinical judgment and she would have treated A.W. the same way at her hospital in St.

Louis. Tr. 133; Resp. Ex. G at 3. She testified that she would treat children as if there were

inflammatory components, even if none were present, because some of the tests results take too

long to be returned. Tr. 133-34. On cross-examination, Dr. Mar was asked if she agreed with Dr.

Gorman’s diagnosis of A.W. of “inflammatory transverse myelitis,” Dr. Mar stated that she

disagreed with that diagnosis because “[Dr. Gorman] never used the term ‘inflammatory

transverse myelitis.’ He used the term ‘acute transverse myelitis,’ as clinicians generally do.”

Tr. 167. However, when Dr. Mar was directed to Dr. Gorman’s record dated August 30, 2013,

which stated, “I think inflammatory [transverse myelitis] most likely diagnosis,” Dr. Mar

conceded Dr. Gorman considered inflammatory transverse myelitis as the diagnosis “at the

time,” and stated that she would not have questioned his diagnosis. Tr. 169.

At the end of Dr. Mar’s testimony, she reiterated that her alternative diagnosis would be

“probable idiopathic transverse myelitis,” due to the lack of the TMCWG’s inflammation

criteria. Tr. 171.

20

Proprioceptor is the sensory nerve terminals found in muscles, tendons and joint capsules, which give information

concerning movements and position of the body. Dorland’s at 1528.

16

While Dr. Romberg largely deferred to Dr. Mar’s assessment of A.W.’s condition for the

respondent, in his report and testimony, he opined that, “a non-compressive transverse

myelopathy (ATM without inflammation) may best fit the features of [A.W.’s] neurological

disease…” Resp. Ex. D at 5.

3. Petitioner’s Experts’ Opinions Regarding A.W.’s Diagnosis

Petitioner’s experts, Drs. Steinman and Kinsbourne agreed with A.W.’s treating

physicians’ diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis. See Pet. Exs. 13, 24, 27; Tr. 64, 114.

In Dr. Kinsbourne’s first report, he stated, “[A.W.] suffered acute transverse myelitis,

which was diagnosed and treated with some success as an autoimmune disorder. Its course was

monophasic, with residual neurological impairments.” Pet. Ex. 13 at 3. In his supplemental

report, Dr. Kinsbourne directly addressed some of the issues Dr. Mar raised in her report,

specifically the reliance on the TMCWG’s inflammatory criteria to diagnosis ATM. Pet. Ex. 27

at 2. Dr. Kinsbourne wrote, “Inflammatory markers are not a mainstay of the diagnosis of

transverse myelitis. They are quite variable when they appear, if they appear at all.” Id. He

noted that in A.W.’s case, the repeat MRI did not enhance, and she did not have a repeat lumbar

puncture within the week, as the TMCWG recommends if inflammatory markers are not present

in the first diagnostic tests. Id. He stated, “it is quite common for inflammatory markers to

appear in the cerebrospinal fluid after a delay, but we simply did not know whether they did in

[A.W.’s] case. Id. Dr. Kinsbourne also referenced the Pidcock et al., study, which analyzed

forty-seven cases of children diagnosed with ATM who met the criteria established by the -

TCMWG. Id. at 2; Pet. Ex. 27-3. Out of the forty-seven cases reviewed, MRIs were obtained in

38 of the cases which showed T2 signal abnormalities at the cervical level in half of the cases.

Pet. Ex. 27-3 at 3. Gadolinium infusion demonstrated lesion enhancement on T1-weighted

images in seventy-four percent of cases. Id. at 3. Additionally, an elevated white blood cell

count was found in only half of the cases with MRIs and positive IgG index was found in less

than five percent. Id.

Dr. Kinsbourne also referenced A.W.’s ICU medical record from August 30, 2013, which

reads, “neuro: MRI of spine showed C4-T1 inflammation within white and gray matter,

concerning for transverse myelitis.” Pet. Ex. 27 at 2; Pet. Ex. 4 at 321 (original emphasis). He

observed that this note was proceeded by a list of negative outcomes of multiple inflammatory

tests for inflammation and yet, the negative laboratory tests did not cause the treating physicians

to change their diagnosis or suspend anti-inflammatory treatment. Pet. Ex. 27 at 2.

Testifying by teleconference, Dr. Kinsbourne reiterated his opinion that A.W. was

diagnosed correctly with ATM. Tr. 114. He stated that the basis for his opinion was chiefly the

clinical presentation of A.W.’s neurological disorder and the MRI findings on her spinal cord.

Id. Dr. Kinsbourne testified that A.W.’s clinical presentation itself justified immediately

beginning immune-modulating treatment, like plasma exchange and IVIG. Tr. 114-15. He

stated, “So the fact that the child was diagnosed as having an inflammatory condition,” and

substances that are known to reduce inflammation were used successfully was a practical

validation of the diagnosis. Tr. 115.

17

Dr. Kinsbourne testified that diagnostic criteria for ATM established by the TMCWG is

helpful for clinical research and trials and has to be restrictive to compare and contrast results.

Tr. 115-17. He referred to two articles which showed how frequently the inflammatory markers

were found in cases of ATM, the Pidcock article discussed above and an article by Brauna et

al.21 Tr. 117. The Brauna article analyzed forty-five cases of patients that fulfilled the

TMCWG’s diagnostic criteria for possible or definite ATM. Pet. Ex. 32-02 at 4. The study

found that of this group, 48 percent met the TMCWG’s criteria for definite ATM and 53 percent

for possible ATM. In the total group 64 percent of patients had a spinal MRI showing lesions in

the T2 sequence. Id. Gadolinium enhancement was only present in the MRIs of 56 percent of

cases. Id. Dr. Kinsbourne stated that the Brauna study made the following finding:

“Of the 24 patients who fulfilled the criteria for definite ATM, two presented positive

MRI, pleocytosis and positive IgG index; five presented positive MRI and pleocytosis;

one presented positive MRI and elevated IgG index; one presented pleocytosis and

elevated IgG index; seven presented positive MRI only; five presented pleocytosis only;

and three presented positive IgG index only.”

Pet. Ex. 32-02 at 3; Tr. 123.

The study noted that five patients progressed to multiple sclerosis, three being from the

“possible ATM group” and two from the definite ATM group. Id. The article stated that the

TMCWG’s diagnostic criteria was established to “help select homogenous groups of patients in

order to facilitate clinical research in idiopathic ATM.” Id. at 4. The article also stated, “…even

when applying the restrictive criteria of the Working Group, a considerable proportion of

patients with definite or possible ATM may progress to MS.” Id. Dr. Kinsbourne testified that

he agreed that the proposed TMCWG’s criteria only requires a listing of one [inflammatory

marker], but he stated, “That is not for clinical treatment guidance…it’s for assembling a

coherent group for multi-clinic research.” Tr. 124.

Dr. Steinman also agreed with A.W.’s treating physicians’ diagnosis of ATM. Pet. Ex.

24 at 6; Tr. 62. In Dr. Steinman’s report, he stated, “Based on the records, the diagnosis here

was clearly acute transverse myelitis.” Pet. Ex. 24 at 6. He disagreed with Dr. Mar’s assessment

that A.W.’s did not have inflammatory ATM. Id. Dr. Steinman observed that the A.W.’s board

certified neurologists intervened early in the course of A.W.’s illness with three major

interventions to suppress inflammation and would not have proceeded with those interventions

had her transverse myelitis not been inflammatory. Id. at 7. He stated that the intervention with

high-dose corticosteroids intravenously for five days, as well as a course of plasmapheresis and

intravenous immunoglobulin would likely mask the evolution of an inflammatory response in the

course of A.W.’s illness. Id.

Dr. Steinman’s testimony was consistent with his reports. He stated that it was his

opinion that A.W. suffered from ATM. Tr. 64. He noted that none of A.W.’s treating physicians

21

J. Brauna et al., Idiopathic acute transverse myelitis: a clinical study and prognostic markers in 45 cases, 12

Multiple Sclerosis, 169-171 (2006) [Pet. Ex. 32-02].

18

dissented in A.W.’s diagnosis of ATM. Tr.65. Dr. Steinman testified that A.W. presented with

“a devastating spinal cord syndrome with inability to walk, sphincter problems, weakness in the

arms,” the doctors wanted to avoid further life-threatening emergency….they did exactly what I

would do, they did the tests and knowing what the test results were, they started anyway with

corticosteroids to prevent the further progression of this disease. Tr. 66-67.

Dr. Steinman conceded that A.W.’s initial MRI did not show gadolinium enhancement

and that there was no elevated protein or pleocytosis in the CSF as may be typical in ATM. Tr.

72, 78. However, he observed that the doctors at Children’s Hospital unequivocally called

A.W.’s condition inflammatory transverse myelitis and definitively treated it as if it were an

inflammatory disease, even in the absence of the gadolinium enhancement on the MRI. Id.

Additionally, he testified that once steroids are started, a “well-known immunosuppressive

regimen,” further testing may be affected. Tr. 67. He also explained that perhaps the lumbar

puncture test was done “too early.” Id. In his report, he stated, “The early spinal fluid results

may have reflected the reality that the “spill-over” of inflammation into the spinal fluid had not

yet occurred. Pet. Ex. 24 at 6. Dr. Steinman testified that in some minority of cases, the

inflammatory cells may not be present in the spinal fluid or that the MRI may not be enhancing.

Id.

Dr. Steinman explained that A.W.’s treating physician, Dr. Gorman, was looking for

evidence for other causes and did not find any. Tr. 217-18. Dr. Steinman testified that the MRI

did not reveal any evidence of a tumor and the treating physicians were able to rule out a

vascular cause of the lesion. Tr. 73. He noted that Children’s Hospital performed other tests to

rule out noninflammatory causes. Tr. 217. Both the radiologist and Dr. Gorman concluded that

the MRI was consistent with inflammatory myelitis. Tr. 217; see also Pet. Ex. 4 at 649.

Dr. Steinman also responded to Dr. Mar’s assertion that A.W. condition may better be

described as acute flaccid myelitis attacking the anterior horn cells, due to A.W.’s residual

flaccidity in the triceps. Tr. 215-16. He explained that there are patients that have transverse

myelitis and recovered but have residual flaccidity. Id. He stated, “In transverse myelitis, there

aren’t distinct boundaries between the posterior, anterior and central parts of the cord.” Tr. 216.

With reference to “all of the discussion about anterior horn cells and that remarkable flaccidity of

[A.W.’s] triceps,” he concluded that “ [this] is seen in inflammatory transverse myelitis.” Id. He

also agreed that acute flaccid myelitis was not well known in 2013. When questioned about Dr.

Mar’s observations that A.W. had more distal weakness compared to proximal weakness and

A.W. was experiencing residual weakness in her hands more than her legs, which Dr. Mar

asserted was more consistent with acute flaccid myelitis, Dr. Steinman stated that transverse

myelitis is not confined to a specific system, it goes into “various motor and sensory systems.”

Tr. 230. He explained that A.W. clearly had sensory and motor symptoms, which is suggestive

of a broader area affected such as in transverse myelitis and not as in conditions secondary to

specific viruses like enterovirus or perhaps even D68 that are highly specific to certain cells. Id.

Dr. Steinman also discussed Dr. Mar’s statements that the gray matter involvement noted

on the MRI from August 27th was more consistent with acute flaccid myelitis. He testified that

you can have gray matter involvement in transverse myelitis, MS, acute flaccid myelitis or polio

myelitis. Tr. 227. He noted, however, there was degeneration in the corticospinal tracts (white

19

matter motor pathway). Id. He explained that the boundaries in transverse myelitis are not as

clear (as Dr. Mar was describing). Id.

Dr. Steinman discussed the TMCWG’s proposed criteria of ATM and opined that the

criteria was not meant for clinical practice, but rather for clinical research. Tr. 70, 73. Dr.

Steinman stated that TMCWG’s stated goal of the proposed criteria was to “differentiate

individuals into idiopathic and disease-associated categories, both for the purposes of

longitudinal natural history studies as well as for eventual recruitment into therapeutic clinical

trials.” Resp. Ex. C-01 at 4. The paper also states, “The proposed criteria may be perceived as

restrictive, we believe the use of these criteria will lead to the identification of more homogenous

groups of individuals for clinical studies.” Id. (emphasis added). He noted that in this case,

A.W. was treated with corticosteroids early which would have made it difficult for her to meet

the proposed criteria. Tr. 217.

Dr. Steinman reiterated his belief that A.W. suffered an inflammatory traverse myelitis,

stating that the most poignant fact supporting his opinion is that A.W. got much better because of

the treatment she received. Tr. 80. He stated, “…but I don’t think given the steroids, the

plasmapheresis and the IVIG would have made a tumor better, would have made an

arteriovenous malformation better.” Id.

4. Discussion of A.W.’s Diagnosis of ATM

The Vaccine Act provides that Special Masters are to consider any medical diagnosis

contained in the record. §300aa-13(b)(1). A special master must weigh and evaluate opposing

expert opinions, medical and scientific evidence and the evidentiary record in deciding whether

petitioners’ have met their burden of proof. Id. The function of a special master is not to

‘diagnose’ vaccine-related injuries, but instead to determine based on the evidence as a whole

and the totality of the case, whether it has been shown by a preponderance of the evidence that a

vaccine caused the petitioner’s injury. Lombardi v. Sec. of Health & Human Servs., 656 F.3d

1343, 1351 (citing Andreu, 569 F.3d at 1382) (Fed. Cir. 2011). In Capizzano, the Federal Circuit

provided additional guidance as how special masters should weigh evidence, placing emphasis

on the statements of treating doctors. 440 F.3d at 1320 (Fed. Cir. 2006). The Federal Circuit

stated, “Althen III explained that medical records and medical opinion testimony are favored in

vaccine cases, as treating physicians are likely to be in the best position to determine whether a

‘logical sequence of cause and effect’ shows that the vaccination was the reason for the injury.’”

Capizzano at 1326 (quoting Althen, F. 3d at 1280).

Additionally, medical records are generally considered trustworthy. Cucuras v. Sec’y of

Health & Human Servs., 993 F. 2d at 1525, 1528 (Fed. Cir. 1993). Where medical records are

clear, consistent and complete, they should be afforded substantial weight. Lowrie v. Sec’y of

Health & Human Servs., No. 03-1585V, 2005 WL 6117475 (Fed. Cl. Spec. Mstr., Dec. 12,

2005). Medical records may be outweighed by testimony that is given later in time that is

“consistent, clear, cogent, and compelling.” Camery v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 42 Fed.

Cl. at 381, 391 (1998).

20

If there is a dispute as to the nature of the petitioner’s injury, the special master may

opine on the nature of the petitioner’s injury.” Contreras v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs.,

844 F. 3d 1363, 1368 (Fed. Cir. 2017) (citing Hibbard v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 686

F. 3d 1355 (Fed. Cir. 2012); see also Broekelschen v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 618, F.3d

1339 at 1346 (Fed. Cir. 2010). In Broeklschen, the Federal Circuit stated that it was appropriate

for the special master to first determine which injury is best supported by the evidence presented

in the record before applying the Althen test. Broekelschen at 1346.

In this case, the parties are disputing the nature of A.W.’s injury. Petitioner argued that

A.W.’s diagnosis, made by her treating physicians, of inflammatory acute transverse myelitis, is

correct. Pet. Prehearing Brief at 3-6. Respondent argued that it is more likely that A.W. suffered

transverse myelopathy or idiopathic transverse myelitis, which are not inflammatory in nature.

Resp. Post-Hearing Brief at 12-13.

More specifically, the parties primarily disputed whether A.W.’s diagnosis of ATM is

supported even when she did not have positive findings of inflammation in the diagnostic tests as

required in the TMCWG’s proposed diagnostic criteria for ATM, but met the remaining

criterion. The parties debated whether A.W. showed sufficient signs of inflammation and how

the TMCWG’s proposed diagnostic criteria is used in clinical practice compared to its use in

clinical research trials. The respondent, through Dr. Mar, posits that the term, “acute transverse

myelitis is the proper term only when the presence of inflammation in the spinal cord has been

confirmed.” Resp. Post-Hearing Brief at 12. She argued that the TMCWG’s proposed criteria

for ATM required that inflammation within the spinal cord be demonstrated by CSF pleocytosis,

elevated IgG or gadolinium enhancement on an MRI and that A.W.’s clinical testing did not

demonstrate any of these markers. Tr. 137-39. Dr. Mar also suggested other possible causes for

A.W.’s condition, including acute flaccid myelitis or a possible spinal cord-stroke.

The petitioner argued that A.W.’s primary treating physician, Dr. Gorman, a pediatric

neurologist with “impeccable credentials,” practicing pediatric neuroimmunology at a major

children’s hospital, diagnosed petitioner with acute transverse myelitis. The petitioner’s experts

agreed with Dr. Gorman’s diagnosis and the medical records support the diagnosis. Pet.

Prehearing Brief at 3. Further, petitioner argued, through Drs. Steinman and Kinsbourne, that

the ATM criteria proposed by the TMCWG, was meant for use in clinical research and does not

necessarily translate to clinical practice. Tr. 70-73;115-17. Finally, petitioner argued that there

is no evidence to support respondent’s alternative diagnosis of acute flaccid myelitis or a spinal-

cord stroke.

A.W.’s substantial medical records provide support for the diagnosis of ATM and Drs.

Steinman and Kinsbourne’s opinions relating to A.W.’s diagnosis of inflammatory transverse

myelitis. Further, A.W.’s diagnosis and disease course are consistent with the medical literature

about inflammatory acute transverse myelitis.

On August 27, 2013, A.W. was transferred to Boston Children’s Hospital from Exeter

Hospital. Pet. Ex. 4 at 651. A.W. arrived at approximately 3:00 am EST. Pet. Ex. 4 at 600. At

approximately noon on August 27, 2013, A.W. had a neurology consultation while in the ICU

with Dr. Mark Libenson and Dr. Rejean Guerriero, a pediatric neurology resident. Id. Dr.

21

Guerriero noted that A.W.’s MRI of the cervical and thoracic spine “revealed an anterior cord T2

hyperintensity with very mild cord swelling, and no enhancement that would be consistent with

transverse myelitis….It is difficult to tell whether there is a demyelinating process in addition to

the likely inflammation….Her exam this morning appears to be worsening a bit raising concern

that she has greater clinical deficits than early changes on the MRI reveal.” Id. at 653. Dr.

Libenson stated that he agreed with Dr. Guerriero’s assessment and stated, “the clinical

presentation is most consistent with transverse myelitis…She appears to have advanced since her

early morning exam now with near complete weakness…Agree with plan above for high-dose

steroids, LP, brain MRI, ID and serological testing.” Id. at 654. A.W. was started on

methylprednisolone that day. Id.

On August 29, 2013, Dr. Kristin Castillo examined A.W. while she was in the ICU. Pet.

Ex. 4 at 327-29. Dr. Castillo reviewed A.W.s’ MRI and wrote, “Given spinal imaging with C4-

T1 inflammation, concern for transverse myelitis; although imaging not suggestive of infarct, this

is a possibility.” Id. at 328 (emphasis added). A.W. saw Dr. Guerriero again on August 29,

2013. Id. at 391. He noted that A.W. was a previously healthy 11-year old who presents with

weakness and decreased sensation in her arms and legs and “imaging findings consistent with

transverse myelitis.” Id. at 392. He also noted that her “exam progressed over the first 24 hours

which is typical for transverse myelitis.” Id. Dr. Guerriero wrote, “given the history of the recent

Gardasil vaccine, we will need to report this to CDC,” and he recommended that the case be

further discussed with Dr. Gorman. Id.

On August 30, 2013, A.W. was examined by Dr. Gorman. Pet. Ex. 4 at 648. After

performing an exam, Dr. Gorman noted, “Progression of symptoms, improvement with steroids,

occurrence less than 30 days from vaccination, [family history] of autoimmunity, and personal

[history] of autoantibodies all support diagnosis of inflammatory transverse myelitis.” Id. at 649

(emphasis added). He also considered whether her condition was related to a spinal cord stroke

and wrote, “Traditional ischemic infarct unlikely based on tempo of onset and distribution of

deficits not fitting anterior spinal artery.” Id. He then wrote, “Therefore, I think inflammatory

transverse myelitis most likely diagnosis.” Id. (emphasis added). Dr. Gorman made the

following recommendations, “1) Repeat spine MRI with contrast and Diffusion Weighted

Imaging. If clear signs of ischemia, this would alter management. If no signs of ischemia,

would presume inflammatory transverse myelitis even if still no contrast enhancement especially

as treated with steroids.” Id. at 649 (emphasis added).

A.W.’s discharge summary diagnosis was acute transverse myelitis. Pet. Ex. 4 at 610.

The discharge summary provided a summary of A.W.’s stay in the ICU, which noted, “MRI of

spine showed C4-T1 inflammation in white and gray matter, concerning for transverse myelitis.

Patient was started on high dose methylprednisone on the morning of 8/27 for 5-day course.” Id

(original emphasis). The discharge documentation also included a summary of A.W.’s stay on

the pediatric neurology floor. Id. at 611. It provided that a second MRI scan was performed

with diffusion and that “this study showed the evolution of her lesion but there were no findings

consistent with infarction.” Id. Infectious disease testing for adenovirus, Lyme disease, CMV,

EBV, mycoplasma, enterovirus and West Nile virus were negative. Id.

22

After A.W. was discharged from the hospital, she was followed by Dr. Gorman to the

present time. He never changed A.W.’s diagnosis from acute transverse myelitis. See Pet. Ex. 4

at 40, 96, 146; Pet. Ex. 8 at 67-71, 97-99, 189, 203; Pet. Ex. 20 at 3, 11; Pet. Ex. 30 at 23; and

Pet. Ex. 38 at 102-04.

The medical records are notable in that not only Dr. Gorman identified the inflammatory

nature of A.W.’s condition, but so did other medical professionals that treated her at BCH

including the neuro-radiologist. Dr. Guerriero first noted that A.W.’s first MRI at BCH revealed,

“an anterior cord T2 hyperintensity with mild cord swelling.” Pet. Ex. 4 at 653. He also stated

that it was difficult to tell at that time whether there was a demyelinating process “in addition to

the likely inflammation.” Id (emphasis added). Dr. Guerriero and Dr. Libenson, the attending

neurologist, were concerned about A.W.’s worsening condition and started her on high-dose

steroids immediately. Id. at 653-54. Dr. Guerriero identified mild cord swelling, even though

there was no enhancement on the MRI. In that same record he referred to this as “likely

inflammation.” Dr. Libenson agreed with Dr. Guerriero’s assessment, stating, “The clinical

presentation is most consistent with transverse myelitis.” Id. at 654. On August 30, 2013, Dr.

Castillo also noted that the MRI showed C4-T1 inflammation. Id. at 323.

Further, the medical records reject the diagnosis of a vascular cause or stroke of the

spinal cord. Early on the treating physicians considered whether A.W. had an anterior cord

stroke and ordered diffusion weighted imaging of the spine specifically to look for evidence of

an infarct. Pet. Ex. 4 at 653. Neurologist Dr. Peter Tasi wrote on August 31, 2013 that A.W.’s

“loss of posterior columns bilaterally R greater than left with loss of strength right greater than

left and toe extensor on right [are]findings which make an anterior spinal infarction much less

likely.” Id. at 387. Dr. Gorman noted, “Traditional ischemic infarct unlikely based on tempo of

onset and distribution of deficits not fitting anterior spinal artery….no clear signs of cord or

adjacent vertebral body ischemia/infarct on MRI and improvement this early would be somewhat

unusual.” Id. at 649. Her discharge summary stated that, “As further neurologic workup, after

arrival on the floor, she underwent another MRI scan with diffusion sequences to look for sign of

infarct. The study showed the evolution of her lesion but there were no findings consistent with

infarction.” Id. at 611.

From the beginning of A.W.’s stay at BCH, all of the medical professionals consistently

noted that A.W.’s signs and symptoms were consistent with inflammatory acute transverse

myelitis and treated her as such.

The respondent, through Dr. Mar, insisted that in order for a diagnosis of ATM to be

valid, inflammatory markers can only be demonstrated by certain diagnostic tests specified by

the TMCWG. Tr. 133-139; Resp. Ex. A; Resp. Post-Hearing Brief at 12. Dr. Mar focused on

the TMCWG’s requirement that inflammation within the spinal cord must be demonstrated by

CSF pleocytosis, elevated IgG index or a gadolinium enhancement. Id.; Resp. Ex. A at 3. The

respondent stated that “the normal CSF results and the lack of gadolinium enhancement on

A.W.’s initial MRI were inconsistent with the diagnosis of ATM.” Resp. Post-Hearing Brief at

13. However, as discussed above, A.W.’s treating physicians identified inflammation in the

imaging, despite the lack of enhancement. See Pet. Ex. 4 at 321, 323, 610, and 653. Further,

consistent with Dr. Steinman’s theory that the immediate treatment of high-dose steroids may

23

have actually masked inflammatory markers in a follow-up MRI, Dr. Gorman noted, “If no signs

of ischemia, would presume inflammatory transverse myelitis even if still no contrast

enhancement especially as treated with steroids.” Tr. 217-18; Pet. Ex. 4 at 649 (emphasis

added). When Dr. Gorman made this recommendation and wrote this note, A.W. had been on

high dose steroids for three days.

Additionally, the medical literature submitted by both parties support A.W.’s diagnosis of

acute transverse myelitis. Most relevant to this case is an article by Deiva et al.22, the most

recent article, which reviewed cases of children diagnosed with idiopathic acute transverse

myelitis using the TMCWG’s criteria. Resp. Ex. H-01. The study noted, “The utility of the

TMCWG definitions in younger children can be limited in practice due to challenges including

defining a clear sensory level and the requirement of gadolinium-enhancing scans and lumbar

punctures.” Id. at 1. The study reviewed MRI findings of children with definite and probable

acute transverse myelitis and found that cervical or cervico-thoracic lesions were less frequently

positive for gadolinium enhancement. Id. at 4.

The Pidcock et al., article reported on the clinical characteristics, diagnostic test

characteristics and sensory characteristics of patients under the age of 18 diagnosed with acute

transverse myelitis. Pet. Ex. 27-3. It found that the mean time from the onset of acute symptoms

to functional nadir was about two days in the children. Id. Ninety-one percent of the patients

described sensory loss or numbness in the initial phase; eighty-nine percent reported weakness;

eighty-five percent reported urinary dysfunction; and seventy-five percent reported pain.

Significantly, eighty-nine percent were bed bound/wheel chair bound or required assisted

ventilation during the initial phase of ATM. Id. Further the study noted that in the patients

where sensory and motor characteristics were collected, sixty percent had positive sensory

complaints of burning, tingling or electric shock sensations, disquieting numbness was present in

seventy-one percent of patients and a combination of both sensory characteristics were present in

ten patients. Id. at 3. At follow-up, fifty-four percent of patients were still experiencing positive

sensory dysesthesias and seventy-five reported numbness. Id. Additionally, the study noted that

impaired bladder control is the most common long-term neurologic deficit following ATM. Id.

at 6. MRIs were examined in thirty-eight cases and found that T2 signal abnormalities were

identified at the cervical level in fifty percent of the cases. Id. As discussed during the hearing,

gadolinium infusion demonstrated lesion enhancement on T1-weight images in seventy-four

percent of cases, meaning that twenty-six percent of MRIs of the ATM patients studied did not

enhance. Id. at 3. Further, CSF WBC and protein were normal in thirty-one patients. Id. at 3.

The article by J. Sellner et al., reviewed 63 cases of patients who had been discharged

with a diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis and compared the diagnostic and clinical findings

with the TMCWG’s proposed diagnostic criteria of ATM. Resp. Ex. F-04 at 5. It found, “The

frequency of detectable spinal cord MRI lesions was high (90.4%), but contrast enhancement

was not always present (60.3%).” Id. The study also noted that, “Abnormal CSF findings were

less frequent than evidence for MRI lesions during workup…Normal WBC counts were detected

in CSF in about 50% of patients…” Id.

22

Kumaran Deiva, et al., Acute idiopathic transverse myelitis in children: Early predictors of relapse and disability,

84 Neurology, 341-349 (2015) [Resp. Ex. H-01].

24

All or most of the symptoms described in the Pidcock study were present in A.W.

Additionally, A.W.’s initial MRI showed a T2 signal abnormality of the spinal cord from C4-

T11. Pet. Ex. 4 at 262. A.W.’s initial symptoms were paresthesia and weakness in her lower

extremities that followed extreme pain. Pet. Ex. 4 at 600. She described numbness and tingling

in her lower extremities. Id. at 485. Additionally, A.W. described associated tingling in her

arms, which spread to her hands and followed by weakness in her hands. Id. at 604. By the time

A.W. arrived at Exeter Hospital, she was unable to walk. Pet. Ex. 3 at 1. Her symptoms

progressed while in the ICU of BCH until she was started on high-dose steroids. Pet. Ex. 4 at

652-53. While A.W. was at BCH she experienced urinary dysfunction and then her urinary

dysfunction continued after her discharge. See Pet. Ex. 4 at 612; Pet. Ex. 8 at 69, 145.

The Kaplin et al.23 article, which studied patients who met the TMCWG’s proposed

diagnostic criteria, found that while white matter changes, demyelination and axonal injury is

prominent in postinfectious myelitis, involvement of the central compartment of the cord, gray

matter or neurons is also prominent in some [transverse myelitis] cases, a “finding that supports

the view that in TM both gray and white matter compartments may be equally affected.” Resp.

Ex. F-05 at 2. This article supports Dr. Steinman’s statements that acute transverse myelitis is

not confined to white matter and therefore, the radiologist’s finding of “central cord

hyperintensity center in the gray matter,” on the initial MRI is not as significant as Dr. Mar

posits. Further, A.W.’s medical records indicate that the inflammation was not limited to the

gray matter. See Pet. Ex. 4 at 321, 610.

As discussed above, A.W.’s treating physicians diagnosed her with inflammatory acute

transverse myelitis after running extensive diagnostic tests. Despite the lack of enhancement on

the MRI or CSF levels in the spinal fluid, A.W.’s treating physicians recognized her condition as

inflammatory and commenced an anti-inflammatory regime. Dr. Steinman was able to provide

an explanation as to why certain inflammatory markers would not be present on repeat MRIs,

which was also recognized by A.W.’s treating physician, Dr. Gorman. Further, the alternative

diagnoses, such as acute flaccid myelitis or a spinal cord stroke proposed by Dr. Mar and the

respondent were not supported by the medical records. Finally, the medical literature submitted

shows that symptoms and clinical presentation of acute transverse myelitis varies and that while

applying the TMCWG’s proposed criteria is useful for defining clear cases for study groups, it is

overly rigid for application in clinical practice. In fact, Dr. Mar acknowledged in both her report

and testimony that she would have treated A.W. the same way if she had presented at her

hospital. Tr. 133; Resp. Ex. G at 3.

After reviewing the medical records, the medical literature, the expert reports and

testimony from the experts, I find that petitioner has shown by a preponderance of the evidence

that A.W. suffered acute transverse myelitis which was inflammatory in nature as diagnosed and

treated by her physicians at Boston Children’s Hospital.

B. Althen Analysis

1. Althen Prong One

23

Adam I. Kaplin et al., Diagnosis and Management of Acute Myelopathies, 11 The Neurologist 2-18 (2005) [Resp.

Ex. F-05].

25

a. Legal Standard

Under Althen prong one, the causation theory must relate to the injury alleged. Thus, a

petitioner must provide a “reputable” medical or scientific explanation, demonstrating that the

vaccine received can cause the type of injury alleged. Pafford, 451 F.3d at 1355-56. The theory

must be based on a “sound and reliable medical or scientific explanation.” Knudsen v. Sec’y of

Health & Human Servs., 35 F.3d 543, 548 (Fed. Cir. 1994). It must only be “legally probable,

not medically or scientifically certain.” Id. at 549. However, the theory still must be based on a

“sound and reliable medical or scientific explanation.” Knudsen at 548. The Federal Circuit

explained in Althen that “while [that petitioner’s claim] involves the possible link between

[tetanus toxoid] vaccination and central nervous system injury, a sequence hitherto unproven in

medicine, the purpose of the Vaccine Act’s preponderance standard is to allow the finding of

causation in a field bereft of complete and direct proof of how vaccines affect the human body.”

Althen, 418 F.3d at 1280 (emphasis added).

b. Expert Opinions on the Theory of Causation

Petitioners, through Dr. Steinman, proposed a theory of molecular mimicry to explain

how the HPV vaccine may cause inflammatory transverse myelitis. Pet. Ex. 24 at 7; Tr. 63. He

testified that the Gardasil vaccine includes four versions of the L1 protein that is combined with

an alum adjuvant to illicit a strong immunological response. Tr. 63. Dr. Steinman stated that the

immune response to the Gardasil vaccine has been shown to be forty times stronger than to the

natural infection. Id.

Dr. Steinman explained that when proteins are made there are common architectural

structures and that these structures repeat in nature, including in foreign antigens. Tr. 82; Pet.

Ex. 24 at 8. The foreign antigens have structural motifs that are similar to myelin proteins,

which insulate the nerves. Tr. 82. Such similarity creates the potential for molecular mimicry in

which T cells, recognizing overlapping amino acid strings in the self peptides and in the vaccine

antigens, are provoked to cross react and attack the body tissues that contain the self-antigen-

which in the case of ATM can be either myelin or MOG. Id.

Dr. Steinman explained that there are three known antigenic triggers for inflammatory

transverse myelitis. Id. One antigen is the Aquaporin-4, which gives rise to neuromyelitis

optica. Id. Dr. Steinman noted that the medical records show that A.W. tested negative for the

Aquaporin-4 antibody and she did not develop neuromyelitis optica. Id.; see also Pet. Ex. 4 at

98. He stated that the other known two proteins in the CNS that are attacked in ATM are the

myelin basic protein and the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (“MOG”). Pet. Ex. 24 at 7;

Tr. 84.

In determining how much overlap is necessary between an amino acid in

immunodominant peptides in the area of the central nervous system and a foreign antigen to

cause an immune reaction, Dr. Steinman referenced his own research that found a viral peptide

with homology of just five amino acids out of twelve with a self-peptide can induce

26

neuroinflammation with paralysis in experimental animals. Tr. 82; Pet. Ex. 24 at 8. He also

stated that these amino acids need not be consecutive. Pet. Ex. 24 at 8.

He explained that the Gardasil vaccine has four antigens, HPV Types 6, 11, 16 and 18.

Pet. Ex. 24 at 8. He performed BLAST searches looking for amino acid homologies between the

myelin basic protein or MOG and the four HPV strains. Id. at 9; Tr. 84. Dr. Steinman testified

that he found that the HPV6 and HPV11 antigens fulfilled the criteria for molecular mimicry

with myelin basic protein. Id. at 84; Pet. Ex. 24 at 10. For MOG, all four components of the

Gardasil vaccine met the criteria. Id. Dr. Steinman concluded that, “There are abundant

molecular mimics between the components of the Gardasil vaccine and two myelin proteins

(MOG and myelin basic proteins) that are known to be the subject of immune attack in

transverse myelitis. The degree of mimicry was sufficient to cause neuroinflammation, based on

the experimental evidence.” Pet. Ex. 24 at 15.

Respondent’s expert, Dr. Romberg, first argued that there was no evidence that A.W.’s

neurological condition was inflammatory in nature. Resp. Ex. D at 4. He then reviewed Dr.

Steinman’s theory of molecular mimicry and performed his own BLAST search. Resp. Ex. D at

5. He stated that the identified myelin basic protein segment and the MOG protein segments are

ubiquitous and “are similar to tens of thousands of other microbial proteins than they are to the

HPV L1 proteins.” Id. Specifically, he offered that the myelin basic protein segment selected by

Dr. Steinman, perfectly matched microbial proteins expressed in viruses, bacteria or fungi. Id. at

5. Dr. Romberg concluded, based on homology, an immune response targeting the myelin basic

protein and MOG protein segments was more likely due to an exposure to “literally tens of

thousands of microbes than due to exposure to Gardasil.” Id. He also concluded that the myelin

basic protein and MOG protein segments Dr. Steinman identified are unlikely to be highly

immunogenic. Id. He continued, stating that if they were highly immunogenic, “we would all be

in a constant state of neuro-inflammation because we are exposed to these protein segments

through common childhood illness.” Id. During the hearing, Dr. Romberg testimony was

similar to his report. Tr. 202. He stated that while he believed the HPV vaccination was one of

the exposures that A.W. had prior to developing her neurological symptoms, it was not the only

exposure that has antigen similarity to the myelin basic protein. Id. He opined that A.W. was

likely exposed to “lots of other antigens from bacteria or fungus or viruses,” that she had

previously been exposed to or continues to be exposed to that have similar structures to the

myelin basic protein which would have been the cause of her neurological condition. Id. Dr.

Romberg stated that, “…there is no compelling evidence that there is significant homology

between HPV L1 and the myelin basic protein that is greater than literally tens of thousands of

other proteins that are found in microorganisms that had either previously infected A.W.

naturally, or that she carried either on her skin or mucosal surfaces.” Tr. 207.

Dr. Romberg agreed with Dr. Steinman that the adjuvant, alum, makes the HPV more

effective. Tr. 203. He suggested that the alum makes the immune system take the vaccine

seriously. Id. While Dr. Romberg testified that lots of natural adjuvants exist in bacteria, viruses

and fungi, alum is the only adjuvant used in vaccines administered in the U.S. Tr. 203. The

adjuvant alum is meant to provoke the formation of inflammasome, which produces a lot of IL-1,

“the fever cytokine.” Id. He testified that alum is added to the HPV vaccine because the vaccine

27

only includes proteins and it does not contain any of “the other stuff that a natural viral infection

would produce.” Tr. 204.

Dr. Romberg concluded that in order for an inflammatory reaction to damage the brain, it

must travel from the deltoid where A.W. received the vaccination, to the central nervous system.

Tr. 206. The only plausible way to make this trip, according to Dr. Romberg is through systemic

circulation and if that were the case, there would be evidence of inflammation, like fever or

tachycardia. Tr. 206. Further, he noted that there was no evidence that the blood-brain barrier

was “leaky” at the time it was tested. Id. He acknowledged that the lumbar puncture occurred

after the initiation of steroids, but he stated that some proteins would have remained in the CSF

persistently, even though the cells may go away, and glucose may normalize. Tr. 207.

Dr. Steinman responded to Dr. Romberg’s testimony regarding the necessity for a fever

for cells to access the brain. Tr. 209. Dr. Steinman explained that certain diseases, like MS,

Guillain-Barré, and transverse myelitis, in which diseases he has a particular specialty, are not

associated with fever. Id. He explained that inflammatory biomarkers are helpful in certain

diseases, like rheumatological diseases or Muckle-Wells syndrome, but are not seen in

neuroinflammatory diseases like MS or acute transverse myelitis. Tr. 210. He explained that

when a cell is activated by encountering an antigen, integrins24 (Velcro-like materials) are

expressed. Tr. 209. There are two chains of an integrin, alpha 4 and beta 1. [The antigen, with

the integrins] will get into the brain, whether or not there is a fever, whether or not there is an

elevation of C-reactive protein, whether or not there is an elevation of the sed rate. Id.

Second, Dr. Steinman discussed Dr. Romberg’s theory that A.W.’s neurological disease

could have been triggered by another microbe that has sufficient homology with the HPV

vaccine and the myelin basic protein. Tr. 210. While he recognized some of the viruses and

bacteria Dr. Romberg identified as having a higher level of identity with the myelin basic protein

or MOG, there was no evidence that A.W. had one of those entities. Tr. 212. In fact, the record

indicates that A.W. was quite healthy and she did not suffer from any infections in the months

prior to the onset of her transverse myelitis. Tr. 213. Instead, the record indicates that she

received three HPV vaccines and the HPV vaccine has five out of seven amino acids that are

homologous to the myelin basic protein. Tr. 212.

He also observed that the naturally active adjuvants that occur in all microbes are not as

powerful as the addition of alum to certain vaccines, including the HPV vaccine. Tr. 211. Dr.

Steinman cited to the Souayah et al.25, article which found that the Gardasil vaccine produces a

40-fold increase in HPV antibodies compared with the physiological antibody level triggered by

a natural HPV infection. Pet. Ex. 33-01 at 3. He stated that the alum is formulated to the

specific HPV antigen that “you want to immunize to,” in order to achieve the strong

immunogenic effect that is desired when making a vaccine such as Gardasil. Tr. 212. He further

observed that it takes three separate immunizations to achieve the strong immunity to the HPV

24

Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane (two-chain) receptors that mediate cell-adhesion.

25

Nizar Souayah et al., Guillain-Barré syndrome after Gardasil vaccination: Data from Vaccine Adverse Event

Reporting System 2006-2009, 29 Vaccine 886-889 (2011) [Pet. Ex. 33-01].

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antigens in the vaccine. Id. Dr. Steinman observed that Dr. Romberg never identified a

particular antigen/natural adjuvant combination that illicit the same strong effect as the HPV

vaccine, as the evidence does not exist. Id. at 213. He stated that the evidence does exist for the

theory that HPV with an adjuvant specifically tailored to the HPV antigens which have sufficient

homology to the myelin basic protein and MOG can trigger neuroinflammation on the third

recall response three weeks after the vaccination as occurred in this case. Id. Dr. Steinman

emphasized that even if there was some evidence that the naturally occurring adjuvants paired

with various naturally occurring antigens were as powerful as the alum/HPV antigen

combination in Gardasil, there is no evidence that A.W. had one of those infections and in fact

the evidence is to the contrary. She was healthy in the months before the onset of her illness and

we know that she did receive the third Gardasil vaccine within an immunologically relevant time

period before onset.

c. Discussion and Conclusion

As discussed above, I concluded that A.W.’s diagnosis of inflammatory acute transverse

myelitis was supported by a preponderance of the evidence. Dr. Steinman opined that the HPV

vaccination caused A.W.’s inflammatory acute transverse myelitis. Pet. Ex. 24 at 7; Tr. 62. Dr.

Steinman offered a theory of molecular mimicry as the explanation for how the HPV vaccination

caused A.W.’s acute transverse myelitis. Id.; Tr. 81. I find that the petitioner has provided

preponderant evidence that the HPV vaccine can cause acute transverse myelitis via molecular

mimicry. Petitioners’ theory of causation is supported by sound and reliable scientific evidence.

An article written by Dr. Steinman26 explains that molecular mimicry works when a

foreign antigen shows the immune system stretches of amino acids that look like self….in

responding routinely to the foreign antigen, the immune system may become primed to attack the

corresponding self-component-myelin. Pet. Ex. 26-13 at 4. Dr. Steinman explained that the

homology between the virus and the myelin basic protein need not be extensive. Id. at 4; Tr. 82.

He noted that research at Stanford which exposed mice to a short stretch of 10 amino acids, only

five of which were identical to the myelin basic protein, was able to induce paralysis. Id. In his

written report, Dr. Steinman noted that in a study published in the Journal of Immunology, 5 of

11 amino acids were identical between the virus and myelin basic protein, and only 3 were

consecutive and this was sufficient to activate myelin basic protein clones and induce clinical

encephalomyelitis with the viral peptide. Pet. Ex. 24 at 8; Tr. 82. He was then able to

demonstrate there were sufficient homologies between the basic myelin protein and two of the

HPV L1 strains (HPV 6 and HPV 11) and between MOG and all four HPV antigens in the

vaccine. Pet. Ex. 24 at 11; Tr. 84.

Respondent, through Dr. Romberg, argued that by “mere random chance, segments of

amino acid homology can exist between two proteins.” Resp. Post-Hearing at 7; Tr. 195. Dr.

Romberg offered his own BLAST searches, looking across proteins expressed by “fungi, virii

and bacteria” to determine whether any of the proteins included in the amino acid sequences that

matched the myelin basic proteins identified by Dr. Steinman as having significant homology

26

Lawrence Steinman, Autoimmune Disease: misguided assaults on the self produce multiple sclerosis, juvenile

diabetes and other chronic illness. Promising therapies are emerging, Scientific American, 107-114 (1993) [Pet. Ex.

26-13].

29

with HPV L1 proteins contained in the Gardasil vaccine. Resp. Post-Hearing Brief at 8; Tr.198.

Dr. Romberg concluded that there were tens and thousands of proteins expressed by viruses,

bacteria, fungi or parasites that were more similar to the myelin basic protein “than the regions

which Dr. Steinman identified in the HPV L1 proteins.” Id. Dr. Romberg postulated that A.W.

could have been exposed to one of these viruses, bacteria or fungi that could have resulted in

molecular mimicry and caused A.W.’s acute transverse myelitis.

As Dr. Steinman noted, the medical records do not demonstrate that A.W. had exposure

to another virus or bacteria at the onset of her condition. Instead, the medical records and the

testimony of the witnesses demonstrated that A.W. was healthy prior to the onset of her illness.

There were no reports of any illness in the months before the onset of her symptoms. A.W.

attended her first day of school and was playing basketball with her brothers the day her

symptoms began. Additionally, Dr. Steinman was able to explain, with support from medical

literature, how the alum adjuvant specifically combined with the antigens in the HPV vaccine,

will cause an immunological reaction that is stronger than the naturally occurring adjuvants in

viruses or bacteria Dr. Romberg identified.

The respondent argued that Dr. Steinman did not know for certain the significance of the

homology between the proteins in the HPV vaccine and the myelin basic protein. Dr. Steinman

acknowledged that the exact segment of the molecule may vary from individual to individual, so

one cannot state for certainty that such a reaction occurred in a given patient. Tr. 102. However,

Dr. Steinman stated that he conducted his searches specific to the known proteins in the HPV

vaccine and the proteins that are “known to be targets of the immune response in transverse

myelitis,” which provides a sound foundation for the theory of molecular mimicry. Id. at 101.

Accordingly, I find that petitioners’ have satisfied the requirement of Althen prong one by

presenting a reputable scientific explanation of how the HPV vaccine could cause acute

transverse myelitis.

2. Althen Prong Two

a. Legal Standard

Under Althen prong two, petitioner must prove “a logical sequence of cause and effect

showing that the vaccination was the reason for [her] injury.” Althen, 418 F.3d at 1278. This

prong is sometimes referred to as the “did it cause” test; i.e. in this particular case, did the

vaccine(s) cause the alleged injury. Broekelschen, 618 F. 3d at 1345 (“Because causation is

relative to the injury, a petitioner must provide a reputable medical or scientific explanation that

pertains specifically to the petitioner’s case”). Temporal association alone is not evidence of

causation. See Grant v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 9556 F.2d 1144, 1148 (Fed. Cir.

1992). This sequence of cause and effect is usually supported by facts derived from petitioner’s

medical records. ALthen, 418 F.3d at 1278; Andreu, 569 F.3d at 1375-77; Capizzano, 440 F.3d

at 1326; Grant, 956 F.2d at 1148.

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b. Discussion and Conclusion

As discussed above, I find that after receiving the third HPV vaccine on July 30, 2013,

A.W. manifested the first symptoms of acute transverse myelitis.

Dr. Steinman offered the theory of molecular mimicry to explain how the HPV vaccine

A.W. received can cause acute transverse myelitis. Dr. Steinman explained that this theory fit the

present case because the administration of the vaccine containing a sufficient homology with the

myelin basic protein provoked the onset of acute transverse myelitis within twenty-seven days.

Pet. Ex. 24 at 18. Multiple alternate causes were ruled out by A.W.’s treating physicians. Id. at

18.

Dr. Steinman observed that prior to A.W. receiving the third HPV vaccination, she was

healthy. Tr. 62. A.W. subsequently developed acute transverse myelitis twenty-seven days later.

Prior to the onset of A.W.’s symptoms, there was no evidence that A.W. had any viral or

bacterial infection. Dr. Steinman noted that A.W. was also treated with steroids, plasmapheresis

and IVIG, which are the three major interventions used to suppress inflammation and appeared

to respond positively to the treatment. Id. at 6, 18.

While the respondent did not affirmatively offer an alternative theory for causation,

respondent’s experts opined that a variety of causes other than the vaccine could have triggered

A.W.’s symptoms of ATM. Dr. Mar opined, without evidence, that A.W. may have suffered

from acute flaccid myelitis instead of ATM. See Tr. 137-161, 177, 179, 182, 227-229; Resp.

Post-Hearing Brief at 13. Respondent’s experts focused on the lack of inflammatory markers in

A.W.’s CSF and on the MRI as evidence that A.W. was not suffering from ATM, but something

else altogether. Dr. Mar stated that at the time A.W.’s spinal tap was performed, “[A.W.]

already reached nadir and did not have any progression noted.” Tr. 138. However, the medical

records contradict Dr. Mar’s assertion. When A.W. arrived at BCH in the early morning of

August 27, 2013, she was experiencing decreased sensation in her feet, difficulty walking and

standing, with decreased strength in her bilateral triceps and grip. Pet. Ex. 4 at 602. A.W.

underwent an MRI of her thoracic spine at 4:30 AM and an MRI of her cervical spine at

approximately 7:00 AM. Id. at 710. A note from 11:00 AM written by Dr. Stefater, stated,

“MRI with signs of transverse myelitis C4-T1 and clinical exam progressing with decreased

strength at right ankle and hand movement.” Pet. Ex. 4 at 605 (emphasis added). Around 12:30

PM on August 27, 2013, A.W. was examined by Dr. Guerriero, a neurology resident, who noted

that, “Her exam this morning appears to be worsening a bit raising concern that she has greater

clinical deficits than early changes in the MRI reveal.” Id. at 653. The attending neurologist, Dr.

Libenson noted, “[A.W’s condition] appears to have advanced since her early morning exam

now with near complete weakness of the RLE and little to no movement at the ankle, right toe

equivocal, left is down. She has little movement in her hands….Agree with plan for high dose

steroids.” Id. at 654. It is apparent from the medical records that A.W.’s symptoms were

progressing while she was at BCH and had yet to reach the nadir of her illness when the initial

MRIs were performed. Instead, the record supports Dr. Steinman’s assertion that the MRI and

lumbar puncture were performed early in the disease process and she had not yet reached the

nadir when her physicians intervened. Tr. 73. Further, the medical records demonstrate that

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A.W.’s symptoms and clinical signs were consistent with acute transverse myelitis that was

described in the medical literature submitted by both parties.

Dr. Romberg opined that perhaps A.W. had been exposed to some other type of antigen

that has sufficient homologies with the myelin basic protein. Resp. Ex. D at 5. He stated, “An

immune response targeting and identifying MBP and MOG protein segments would more likely

be due to an exposure to literally tens of thousands of microbes than due to an exposure to

Gardasil.” Id. Once again, the medical records show that A.W. was not experiencing an

infection from another virus or antigen and had not experienced any illness in the months before

the onset of her symptoms. A.W. was tested extensively for various viruses, all which came

back negative. See Pet. Ex. 4 at 684, 686, 690. For example, Dr. Romberg identified adenovirus

as one possible microbe that could have been the cause of A.W.’s symptoms, however, the

records clearly state that A.W. was negative for adenovirus. Pet. Ex. 4 at 326. Dr. Romberg’s

theory that A.W. was exposed to any of the microbes he identified in his BLAST search is purely

speculative.

The onset of A.W.’s symptoms and the progression of those symptoms, along with the

appearance of a longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesion, which her treating physicians

diagnosed as acute transverse myelitis is consistent with petitioners’ theory that the “homologies

between the components of the Gardasil and myelin proteins in question were sufficient to

trigger neuroinflammation.” See Pet. Ex. 24 at 17. There is no evidence that A.W. was exposed

to any other antigen within the relevant time period that would have been likely to generate

autoimmunity in the same way. Accordingly, petitioners have demonstrated a logical sequence

of cause and effect, satisfying Althen prong two.

3. Althen prong three

a. Legal Standard

Althen prong three requires establishing a “proximate temporal relationship” between the

vaccination and the injury alleged. Althen at 1281. That term has equated to the phrase,

“medically-acceptable temporal relationship.” Id. A petitioner must offer “preponderant proof

that the onset of symptoms occurred within a timeframe which, given the medical understanding

of the disorder’s etiology, it is medically acceptable to infer causation.” de Bazan v. Sec’y of

Health & Human Servs., 539 F.3d 1347, 1352 (Fed. Cir. 2008). The explanation for what is

medically acceptable timeframe must also coincide with the theory of how the relevant vaccine

can cause an injury (Althen prong one). Id. at 1352.

b. Discussion and Conclusion

Petitioners argued that there was an acceptable temporal relationship between A.W.’s

third HPV vaccination on July 30, 2013 and the onset of the first symptoms of ATM, twenty-

seven days later. Pet. Prehearing Brief at 8. Dr. Steinman stated, “The timing is typical of a

response to a vaccine, a neuroinflammatory response, whether it’s ADEM, Guillain-Barré, acute

transverse myelitis.” Tr. 88. Dr. Kinsbourne agreed that the onset of A.W.’s ATM twenty-seven

days after her third Gardasil vaccination falls well within the time frame of what is considered a

32

medically reasonable time for the triggering of an immune-mediated neurological injury between

five and 42 days. Pet. Ex. 13 at 6. Respondent did not offer any contrary evidence on timing.

Accordingly, petitioners have demonstrated by preponderant evidence that A.W.’s onset

of symptoms of ATM was within a medically appropriate timeframe following the third HPV

vaccine on July 30, 2013.

V. Conclusion

After a careful review of the entire record, I find that petitioners have established by a

preponderance of the evidence that following the third HPV vaccine administered on July 30,

2013, A.W. developed acute inflammatory transverse myelitis.

Petitioners presented evidence that A.W. was a completely healthy seventh-grader prior

to the onset of severe pain, which was diagnosed as acute inflammatory transverse myelitis

following a complete consideration of A.W.’s symptoms, disease history and a review of MRIs

and lab tests. Petitioners’ experts, Drs. Steinman and Kinsbourne presented evidence that

strongly supports A.W.’s treating physicians’ diagnosis of acute inflammatory transverse

myelitis. Dr. Steinman presented a theory of molecular mimicry, which he supported by

demonstrating BLAST search evidence of several significant homologies with the Gardasil

vaccine that could give rise to neuroinflammation.

While Dr. Mar did not dispute that she would have treated A.W. in a similar manner as

the treating physicians did at BCH, she retrospectively hypothesized that A.W. could have

suffered from acute flaccid myelitis, which was unknown until 2014, instead of acute

inflammatory transverse myelitis. Significantly, A.W. has continued to treat with Dr. Gorman at

Boston’s Children Hospital to the present time and he has maintained the diagnosis of acute

inflammatory transverse myelitis. Dr. Steinman concurred with A.W.’s treating physicians’

diagnosis and treatment. He believed that she had broad damage which crossed boundaries of

grey and white matter in the spinal cord, which does occur in acute inflammatory transverse

myelitis. A.W. was tested for possible infectious causes of here symptoms and all were ruled

out, as well as, an ischemic stroke.

Given the diagnosis and Dr. Steinman’s explanation of molecular mimicry and

uncontested evidence of timing, I find that petitioners established each Althen prong by

preponderant of evidence and, accordingly, petitioners are entitled to compensation. A separate

damages order will be issued.

IT IS SO ORDERED.

s/Thomas L. Gowen

Thomas L. Gowen

Special Master

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