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Tuberculin conversion in children after BCG vaccination
1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Addis Abeba University.
Insights
BCG vaccination in children typically results in a positive tuberculin sensitivity test with less than 10mm of induration. This study suggests routine Mantoux testing post-BCG immunization to assess vaccine effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination is a primary method for preventing tuberculosis.
- Assessing the efficacy of BCG vaccination is crucial for public health strategies.
- Tuberculin sensitivity is a common indicator used to evaluate the immune response to BCG.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate tuberculin sensitivity in children following BCG vaccination.
- To determine the typical induration size associated with a positive Mantoux test after BCG immunization.
- To assess the rate of BCG vaccine complications and the need for revaccination.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 86 children aged 6-24 months received BCG vaccination.
- Tuberculin sensitivity was assessed using the Mantoux test.
- Induration size and any vaccine complications were recorded.
Main Results:
- The overall BCG conversion rate was 59%.
- Of those with a positive reaction, 75% showed indurations not exceeding 10mm.
- BCG vaccine complications were minimal, observed in only 1.2% of children.
Conclusions:
- A positive Mantoux test response after BCG immunization commonly presents with induration less than 10mm.
- Routine Mantoux testing after BCG vaccination is recommended to confirm successful immunization.
- The low complication rate supports the safety of BCG vaccination in this age group.
Abstract:
Tuberculin sensitivity after BCG vaccination was studied in 86 children aged 6 to 24 months at W/o Beletshachew Abbajobire Mother and Child Health Centre, Addis Abeba from July 22-August 23, 1992. The overall conversion rate was 59%, of whom 75% showed indurations not exceeding 10mm. The study confirmed that the positive response in the Mantoux test due to BCG immunization usually produces less than 10mm of induration. Complications of BCG vaccine were observed in only one child (1.2%). Those children who did not react to the test positively (41%) were given re-vaccination with BCG. The study suggests that a Mantoux test should be the usual practice after BCG immunization.