BCG Meaning and
Definition
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BCG is an acronym that stands for Bacillus Calmette-Guérin. It refers to a vaccine used to protect against tuberculosis (TB) and certain types of bladder cancer.
The BCG vaccine is made by attenuating a strain of Mycobacterium bovis, a bacterium that causes TB in cows, through repeated passages in a laboratory setting. It is named after Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin, who developed the vaccine in the early 20th century.
As a vaccine against TB, BCG is primarily administered to infants or children in countries where the disease is prevalent. It helps stimulate the immune system to fight against the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis, reducing the chances of infection or severe disease progression. However, the efficacy of the BCG vaccine can vary, and it may not fully prevent the transmission or development of latent TB.
Additionally, BCG is used as a treatment for non-invasive bladder cancer. It is instilled into the bladder to provoke an immune response against cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth and recurrence. BCG therapy for bladder cancer typically involves a course of several weekly treatments followed by periodic maintenance treatments.
Overall, BCG is a vaccine and therapeutic agent that has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing tuberculosis and treating non-invasive bladder cancer. It has played a significant role in reducing the global burden of TB and providing treatment options for certain cancer patients.
Common Misspellings for BCG
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