[BCG-vaccination and its complications. How great are the benefits of vaccination today?]

Abstract

This paper intends to present an overview concerning the risks and benefits of BCG-immunisation basing on a research of the actual literature. The historical controversy is well known, but regarding the epidemiological situation with respect to morbidity and mortality of tuberculosis in Middle and Western Europe by now it seems to be necessary again to reflect on vaccination recommendations. While complications after vaccination may be serious or even life-threatening, immunization with BCG seems to have a beneficial effect on the incidence of infantile leukemia. Nevertheless, this effect is discussed controversially on recent research. In addition there should be drawn special attention to the problem of life-vaccines, in particular of BCG under the view of the increasing number of children with acquired immunodeficiencies.