Molluscum Contagiosum

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

A common skin infection caused by a pox virus that affects children and adults. Transmission is usually by direct skin contact.

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

· Viral skin infection caused by molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV)
· It is a type of pox virus

Question 3

Risk factors

Answer 3

o Mainly in CHILDREN
o Immunocompromised
o Atopic eczema

Question 4

Epidemiology

Answer 4

· COMMON
· 90% of patients are < 15 yrs
· A lot of people will not seek medical attention for it

Question 5

Presenting symptoms

Answer 5

· Incubation period: 2-8 weeks

· Usually ASYMPTOMATIC

· There may be tenderness, pruritus and eczema around the lesion

· Lesions last for around 8 months

Question 6

Signs on physical examination

Answer 6

· Firm, smooth, umbilicated papules

· Usually 2-5 mm in diameter

· In children - tends to occur on the trunk and the extremities

· In adults - tends to occur on the lower abdomen, genital area and inner thighs (suggesting sexual contact)

Question 7

Investigations

Answer 7

· Usually a CLINICAL diagnosis

· Dermatoscopy may be useful if there is doubt