Costal BCG osteomyelitis presenting as a tumor

Infection. 1992 Mar-Apr;20(2):94-6. doi: 10.1007/BF01711073.

Abstract

We present the case of an 11-month-old male infant who had been BCG vaccinated as a neonate. At the age of nine months, he developed a localized tumor above his right mamilla. The tumor destroyed the fourth rib and infiltrated the surrounding soft tissue. X-ray and CT scan suggested a malignant neoplasm. Histology, however, showed the typical picture of tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis (BCG strain) was isolated from the lesion. Thus, the tumor was caused by an unusual presentation of a costal BCG osteomyelitis which was associated with negative findings in the bone scan.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • BCG Vaccine / adverse effects*
  • Bone Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Osteomyelitis / diagnosis
  • Osteomyelitis / etiology*
  • Ribs*
  • Tuberculosis / diagnosis
  • Tuberculosis / etiology*

Substances

  • BCG Vaccine