The protective efficacy of BCG vaccination is highest against which forms of tuberculosis?
- A Pulmonary tuberculosis in adults
- B Miliary tuberculosis and tuberculous meningitis in children ✓
- C Post-primary reactivation tuberculosis
- D Lymph node tuberculosis at all ages
Correct answer: B. Miliary tuberculosis and tuberculous meningitis in children
Explanation
BCG confers its most consistent protection against haematogenously disseminated disease in young children, namely miliary tuberculosis and tuberculous meningitis, with efficacy around 80 percent for these forms. Its efficacy against adult pulmonary tuberculosis varies widely between trials and is unreliable. This mismatch between strong childhood protection and weak adult pulmonary protection is the classic teaching point about BCG.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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