Bacille Calmette-Guérin: An ophthalmic perspective

Vaccines such as bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) are known for their heterologous effects mediated through a number of mechanisms, including trained immunity constituted by monocyte-macrophage based innate immunity. Other events such as direct hematogenous spread and induction of autoimmunity are also described. There has been a resurgent interest in harnessing some of the benefits of trained immunity in the management of COVID-19, even as several specific vaccines have been approved. We summarize the current knowledge of ocular effects of BCG. Potential effect of granulomatous inflammation on angiotensin converting enzyme activity and accentuation of cytokine storm that may result in undesirable ocular and systemic effects are also discussed.