Mommy Intuition = Toxic Synovitis
Today we had a follow-up appointment with our new pediatrician and I feel so much better about everything that happened this weekend. Ava is back to her normal, spunky little self and is running all over the place getting herself into mischief. We are so happy to see her little feet scamper across our floors and we are so relieved to have this ordeal behind us.
The new doctor was wonderful. Her gentle demeanor and calm, yet happy personality quickly won Ava over. She listened carefully as I explained what happened to us and she did not dismiss my theory that the MMR vaccine could be the culprit.
She believed Ava experienced "toxic (or transient) synovitis" which is much more horrible sounding than it really is. Basically, Ava was trying to fight off a virus and it manifested itself into her hip joint. Any vaccine, including the MMR, is essentially a weakened version of the virus it is trying to prevent and toxic synovitis can be a side effect.
This diagnosis makes sense to me. Ava's symptoms came on suddenly and severely. She could not stand up and she could not walk. Once she regained strength in her legs, she favored her left leg and walked with a limp. The vaccine was also administered to her right leg. Her symptoms disappeared as quickly as they came and she was completely back to normal by Monday morning. If it was an injury, wouldn't her symtoms have lasted longer? Sure she falls down, what toddler doesn't? But wouldn't I know if my child severely injured herself since I am with her nearly 24/7? I suppose it could happen, but it just didn't seem right to me. My gut told me it had something to do with that shot.
The good news - Ava is fine. There doesn't seem to be anything further to worry about and toxic synovitis does not appear to do damage or reoccur. I feel so relieved tonight, so blessed and so happy that my little girl is safe and healthy. Disneyland, here we come!
For more information on Toxic Synovitis, visit the following:
MSN article: Mysterious limp strikes 100,000 kids a year
Transient Synovitis of the Hip on About.com
Ava's story here at BFLA
Ro & Ava - I'm so happy you found this new pediatrician. Now you can enjoy Disneyland! I hope you have a fabulous time!
Posted by: Aileen | October 30, 2008 at 10:07 AM