Molluscum Contagiosum Flashcards
What is the causative organism for molluscum contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum virus
Type of poxvirus
Features of molluscum contagiosum
Small, flesh coloured papules that are umbilicated
Typically appear in “crops” of multiple lesions in a local area
How is molluscum contagiosum spread
Direct contact or by sharing items like towels or bedsheets
Advice
Avoid scratching or picking the lesion as this can cause spreading, scarring and infection.
Management of molluscum contagiosum
Advice and reassurance
How to treat a bacterial superinfection
Topical fuscidic acid or oral flucloxacillin
When to refer a patient with molluscum contagiosum to a specialist
Immunocompromised
Lesions is sensitive areas such as the eyelids or genital area
Specialist treatment options
Topical:
- potassium hydroxide
- benzoyl peroxide
- podophyllotoxin
- imiquimod
Surgical removal and cryotherapy - can lead to scarring
