BCG-Induced cold abscess as a complication of inadvertent vaccine injection: A case series

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is widely used for tuberculosis prevention.
• Intramuscular administration of vaccines, particularly BCG, is generally not recommended due to potential local reactions.

Observation:

• Three infants presented with thigh swelling: a 4-month-old girl (right thigh), an 8-month-old girl (left thigh), and a 5-month-old boy (left thigh).
• Clinical examination revealed localized swelling consistent with an abscess.

Findings:

• Diagnostic workup confirmed BCG-induced cold abscess in all three cases.
• The abscesses were directly attributed to erroneous intramuscular injection of the BCG vaccine into the thigh musculature.

Implications:

• Highlights the critical importance of correct vaccine administration techniques, especially for BCG.
• Underscores the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding potential adverse events from improper vaccine routes.
• Suggests a review of vaccination protocols to prevent such occurrences and ensure infant safety.