Molluscum Contagiosum

Question 1

What is Molluscum contagiosum?

Answer 1

A common skin infection caused by a pox virus that affects children + adults.

Question 2

Describe the aetiology of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 2

Viral skin infection caused by molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV)
A type of pox virus

Question 3

Describe the epidemiology of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 3

COMMON
90% of pts are < 15 yrs
Most will not seek medical attention

Question 4

List symptoms of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 4

Usually ASYMPTOMATIC

May be tenderness, pruritus + eczema around the lesion

Question 5

Describe the usual site of lesions in children and adults with Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 5

Children: trunk + extremities
Adults: lower abdomen, genital area + inner thighs (suggesting sexual contact)

Question 6

Describe the appearance of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 6

Firm, smooth, pearly umbilicated papules

Usually 2-5 mm in diameter

Question 7

What investigations may be used for Molluscum contagiosum?

Answer 7

Dermatoscopy may be useful if there is doubt or confirm by excisional biopsy

Question 8

How is Molluscum contagiosum diagnosed?

Answer 8

Clinically

Question 9

List 4 risk factors for Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 9

Mainly in CHILDREN
Immunocompromised (HIV)
Atopic eczema
Sexually active

Question 10

Describe transmission of Molluscum contagiosum

Answer 10

VERY CONTAGIOUS
Usually by direct skin contact.
Incubation period: 2-8 weeks
Lesions last for ~8 months