Osteitis caused by BCG vaccination.

A survey of 26 Czechoslovakian children diagnosed with BCG osteitis during 1981-1986 is presented. Mycobacterial culture was attempted in 19 cases with confirmation of bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Mycobacterium bovis strain in nine cases. Symptoms appeared approximately 17 months after vaccination; the proximal tibial end, distal femur, and proximal humerus were most affected.