Tuberculosis notwithstanding BCG vaccination.
In a series of 176 patients, 40 children (23%) developed tuberculosis notwithstanding BCG vaccination. The type and severity of the disease in this group were similar to those of the larger series of which this group was a part. However, BCG vaccination appeared to diminish the incidence of dissemination, especially tuberculous meningitis, and the number of deaths. The 40% incidence of tuberculous contacts probably indicates heavy exposure to infection. BCG offers a modicum of protection which the vulnerable should not be denied, but its use should not lead to complacency--the potency of vaccines and the technique of vaccination require constant surveillance. Case finding remains a priority and even BCG-vaccinated patients should be treated for tuberculosis when this is suspected.
D001500:BCG Vaccine; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008168:Lung / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D014374:Tuberculin Test; D014390:Tuberculosis, Meningeal / Q000453:epidemiology; D014391:Tuberculosis, Miliary / Q000453:epidemiology; D014397:Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*
D001500:BCG Vaccine