Molluscum Contagiosum

Question 1

What causes this common skin infection?

Answer 1

Molluscum contagiosum virus - member of the poxviridae virus

Question 2

How does transmission occur?

Answer 2

Close personal contact or indirectly via fomites - contaminated surfaces

Question 3

Who does it typically affect?

Answer 3

Children - often those with atopic dermatitis

Question 4

How do the lesions appear?

Answer 4

Pink/ pearly white papules
Central umbilication
Up to 5mm diameter
Appear in clusters

Question 5

Where do the lesions typically occur?

Answer 5

Clusters anywhere except palms and soles
Commonly trunk and flexures

In adults, sexual contact may lead to lesions on genitalia

Question 6

What self care advice can be given?

Answer 6

Reassure that it is a self limiting condition
Spontaneous resolution within 18 months
Contagious so avoid sharing towels, clothing and baths
School exclusion not necessary

Question 7

Is treatment recommended?

Answer 7

Not usually
Can use simple trauma or cryotherapy to remove
If itch - emollient, mild topical corticosteroids
If skin looks infected - topical antibiotic e.g fusidic acid

Question 8

When might referral be necessary?

Answer 8

HIV positive
Eye involvement
Adults with anogenital lesions - screen for other STIs