J Pediatr Infect Dis 2011; 06(01): 037-040
DOI: 10.3233/JPI-2011-0289
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart – New York

Bacille Calmette-Guerin Lymphadenitis: A single center experience

Ahmad F. AbuZeid
a   Department of Pediatrics, King Hussein Medical Center, Amman, Jordan
,
Muna M. Dahabreh
a   Department of Pediatrics, King Hussein Medical Center, Amman, Jordan
,
Muen S Habashneh
a   Department of Pediatrics, King Hussein Medical Center, Amman, Jordan
,
Amal N. Obeidat
b   Infection Control Manager, King Hussein Medical Center, Amman, Jordan
,
Walid Abuhammour
c   Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Hurley Medical Center, Michigan State University, Flint, MI, USA
› Author Affiliations

Subject Editor:
Further Information

Publication History

24 April 2010

11 December 2010

Publication Date:
28 July 2015 (online)

Abstract

To describe the clinical presentation, course and management of infants that presented with the diagnosis of lymphadenitis after Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination. This is a descriptive study of 89 patients that were referred to the pediatric infectious disease clinic at King Hussein Medical Center in Jordan with regional lymphadenitis after BCG vaccination. The presentation, course and treatment options of these cases were discussed. The study was conducted between September 2006 and September 2007. Eighty-nine patients (47 males (53%) and 42 females (47%) were studied. All infants received the same type of vaccine used by our Ministry of Health, which is the Danish strain. Unilateral axillary lymph node enlargement was the most commonly seen (47%). Cervical lymph nodes were noted in 22 patients (25%) and supraclavicular lymphadenopathy was seen in 16 (18%). Sinus formation was seen in 16 (18%) patients. 27 cases (30%) had fluctuating lymph nodes. Four infants had disseminated infection. The majority (65%) of patients had their symptoms starting within the first 2 months after BCG vaccination. Forty-two (47%) infants had conservative observational management. Anti-tuberculosis medications were commenced in 27 (30%). Surgical excision was performed in 10 (11.5%) cases. All infants but one had complete recovery by the end of the study period. BCG lymphadenitis is a potential complication that necessitates an early recognition and implementing appropriate treatment protocols. Complete healing of suppurative lymphadenitis after BCG vaccine can be achieved using different treatment protocols.