Molluscum Contagiosum Flashcards
What causes this common skin infection?
Molluscum contagiosum virus - member of the poxviridae virus
How does transmission occur?
Close personal contact or indirectly via fomites - contaminated surfaces
Who does it typically affect?
Children - often those with atopic dermatitis
How do the lesions appear?
Pink/ pearly white papules
Central umbilication
Up to 5mm diameter
Appear in clusters
Where do the lesions typically occur?
Clusters anywhere except palms and soles
Commonly trunk and flexures
In adults, sexual contact may lead to lesions on genitalia
What self care advice can be given?
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
Is treatment recommended?
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
When might referral be necessary?
HIV positive
Eye involvement
Adults with anogenital lesions - screen for other STIs
