Clinical Portal 2026 Dr. Murali Gopal
Parent guide

BCG Scar and Lump

What can be normal after BCG vaccination, and when to show a doctor.

Parent Guide Reviewed

Dr. Murali Gopal

Senior Paediatrician & Paediatric Pulmonologist
MCR: 57489
MBBS, DCH(UK), MRCPCH(UK), FRCPCH(UK), CCT Paediatrics (UK), Fellow in Paediatric Pulmonology (Aus), Allergology (Ind)

BCG site changes can take weeks. A small lump, small ulcer, or scar may be an expected reaction if the baby is otherwise well. Unusual, painful, enlarging, or persistent reactions should be reviewed.

What is the BCG scar or lump?

BCG vaccine is used to protect against severe forms of tuberculosis in young children. A small lump, ulcer, or scar at the injection site can be a normal expected local reaction over weeks to months.

Expected local changes

  • A small red lump at the injection site.
  • A small ulcer that forms later and then heals.
  • A small flat scar that may remain.
  • Mild local discharge while healing can occur.

Gentle care at home

  • Keep the area clean and dry.
  • Do not squeeze, scratch, or apply home remedies.
  • Do not apply antiseptic creams, antibiotic creams, or steroid creams unless prescribed.
  • Dress the baby in comfortable loose clothing.
  • Show the doctor if the swelling is large, painful, worsening, or not following the expected course.

Red flags / when to seek medical review

Seek review if any of these occur:
  • Large painful swelling, spreading redness, pus with fever, or baby appearing unwell.
  • Swelling in the armpit or neck that is large, painful, or increasing.
  • No healing over a prolonged period or recurrent discharge.
  • Any concern in an immunocompromised child.

Important facts for parents

  • A BCG scar can vary from child to child.
  • Do not apply turmeric, toothpaste, antiseptic creams, antibiotic creams, or steroid creams without medical advice.
  • The BCG reaction is not usually urgent if the baby is well.
  • A doctor should assess unusual or severe reactions.

Medical disclaimer

General education only This guide does not replace medical consultation, diagnosis, examination, vaccination planning, or individualized treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Seek urgent care for red-flag symptoms.

References

  1. Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Kids Health Info: BCG vaccine for TB.
  2. World Health Organization. Immunization resources.
  3. Indian Academy of Pediatrics / ACVIP immunization resources.

Last reviewed: 31 May 2026. Status: published, clinician reviewed.

Medical review and references

Reviewed byDr. Murali Gopal

Last reviewed2026-05-31

Medical review statusClinician reviewed

ReferencesRoyal Children

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This parent guide is for general education only and does not replace consultation with your child’s paediatrician. Please seek medical care urgently if your child appears seriously unwell, has breathing difficulty, poor feeding, dehydration, altered responsiveness, or if you are worried.