Overview
- Definition: Common viral skin infection in childhood causing localized clusters of epidermal papules (mollusca)
- Cause: Poxvirus, molluscum contagiosum virus
- Appearance: Small, round, waxy, shiny papules containing white cheesy material
- Nature: Relatively harmless; papules may persist for up to 2 years or longer
- Resolution in Children:
- About ½ clear by 12 months
- ⅔ clear by 18 months, with or without treatment
Age and Prevalence
- Mostly Affects: Infants to 10 years old
- Less Common: Adolescents and adults
- More Prevalent: In warm climates
Spread
- Direct Contact: Skin-to-skin
- Indirect Contact: Shared towels or other items
- Auto-Inoculation: Scratching or shaving
- Sexual Transmission: In adults
- Common Activities: When children bathe or swim together
- Incubation Period: 2 weeks to 6 months
Complications
- Secondary Bacterial Infection: From scratching (impetigo)
- Conjunctivitis: When the eyelid is infected
- Disseminated Secondary Eczema
- Scarring: Due to surgical treatment
Treatment
Physical Treatments
- Picking Out Core: Risk of autoinoculation
- Cryotherapy: May leave white marks
- Gentle Curettage or Electrodessication: Can cause scarring
- Laser Ablation: Can cause scarring
Medical Treatments
- Antiseptics: Hydrogen peroxide cream or povidone iodine solution
- Podophyllotoxin Cream
- Wart Paints: Containing salicylic acid
- Cantharidine Solution
- Imiquimod Cream and Sinecatechins: Sometimes used but unproven
- Secondary Dermatitis: Treated symptomatically with mild topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone cream
Prevention
- Infectious Period: Molluscum contagiosum is infectious while active
- Attendance: Affected children and adults should continue attending daycare, school, and work
- Hygiene Measures:
- Keep hands clean
- Avoid scratching or shaving
- Cover all visible lesions with clothing or watertight bandages
- Dispose of used bandages
- Do not share towels, clothing, or other personal effects
- Adults should practice safe sex or abstinence to prevent sexual transmission
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