BCG vaccine shows variable efficacy against adult pulmonary tuberculosis, yet it remains in the Indian immunisation schedule at birth. The form of tuberculosis against which BCG protection is most consistent is:
- A Miliary tuberculosis and tuberculous meningitis in children ✓
- B Laryngeal tuberculosis
- C Adult cavitary pulmonary tuberculosis
- D Tuberculous pleural effusion
Correct answer: A. Miliary tuberculosis and tuberculous meningitis in children
Explanation
The benefit of BCG that is consistently demonstrated across trials is protection against the disseminated haematogenous forms of childhood tuberculosis, namely miliary tuberculosis and tuberculous meningitis, which is why it is given at birth in high prevalence countries like India. Efficacy against adult pulmonary disease ranges widely across studies, from near zero to about 80 percent, and does not justify the schedule by itself.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.