Case Reports of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Osteomyelitis: A Rare Complication in Immunocompetent Infants

Yousra Ghoweba1, Lemis Yavuz1, Wafaa Faysal2

  • 1Pediatrics, Al Jalila Children's Hospital, Dubai, ARE.

Cureus
|March 4, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) osteomyelitis is a rare complication in infants. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this serious BCG vaccine side effect in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is widely administered to newborns globally, including in the UAE, for disease prevention.
  • BCG osteomyelitis, a rare but serious complication, necessitates consideration in pediatric osteomyelitis cases.

Observation:

  • This report details three pediatric cases of BCG osteomyelitis in the UAE, affecting the humerus and tibia in immunocompetent infants.
  • The cases highlight the insidious clinical presentation, emphasizing the need for vigilance.

Findings:

  • Diagnostic approaches include detailed radiologic, microbiologic, and histologic evaluations.
  • The report outlines the specific treatment regimens employed for these patients.

Implications:

  • This case series aims to enhance physician awareness of BCG osteomyelitis.
  • Prompt recognition and early intervention are critical for favorable patient outcomes.

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