Molluscum contagiosum

Question 1

Define Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 1

disease most common in childhood-due to ubiquitous poxvirus infections–cutaneous and occasional mucosal involvement that self resolve and cause no harm

Question 2

Aetiology and risk factors of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 2

Due to Poxvirus-molluscum contagiosum virus (3 types. 1 childhood-contact transmission.MCV2-sexually transmitted-adults)
children most common

MCV virus infects skin, and causes papule. Does not increase change of dysplasia

risk factors:
contact with someone affected (or sex)
HIV
Tropical climates

Question 3

Epidiemology of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 3

mainly children-seems to affect 5-13% of em

Question 4

Signs and Sx of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 4

Clinical diagnosis based on appearance–
HALLMARK–Pearly round papule in a group together (can be a big area)-with central well
Umbilicated papule
most commonly on shins

not red/painful

can have erythema surrounding it
Itchy

if over 50 papule-think immunocompromised
and if face/groin area-dont treat in children

Question 5

Investigations of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 5

its pretty much clinical-nearly never required-

curettage biopsy-can confirm diagnosis if needed

heamatoxylin and eosin staining (HE)-whats done to biopsy for diagnosis