MOLLUSCUM CONTAGIOSUM

What is molluscum contagiosum ?

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that can affect both children and adults. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated objects. This infection leads to small bumps on the skin that are usually symptomless and may resolve on their own. Treatment is typically indicated for cosmetic reasons or when new lesions appear or spread to different areas.

What is the cause of Molluscum?

The cause of molluscum contagiosum is the poxvirus called molluscum contagiosum virus.Transmission: It spreads through contact with skin lesions or exposure to objects carrying the virus. Major transmission routes include repetitive scratching or touching of lesions, shaving with a razor, sharing contaminated towels, participating in contact sports or swimming, and sexual contact.Risk factors: Being immunodeficient, having atopic dermatitis, or engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person increases the risk of contracting this infection.

How does molluscumlook?

Molluscum lesions appear as firm, skin-colored to pinkish or white bumps, resembling pearls, with a shiny surface and a central dimple. They typically range from 2 to 5 mm in diameter and can increase in size. Lesions may occur singly, in groups, or in a line and can appear anywhere on the body except the palms and soles. Common sites include the face, trunk, armpits, and inner elbows. In sexually transmitted cases, molluscum can affect the genitals and surrounding areas.

What are the symptoms of molluscum?

Molluscum skin lesions are generally symptom-free, although they may occasionally cause itching and discomfort. In some cases, inflamed lesions without infection can indicate spontaneous resolution. Surrounding skin may develop itchy, dry, scaly patches known as molluscum dermatitis. Secondary infections are rare but can lead to severe pain, swelling, redness, and pus discharge.

How to Diagnosis molluscum?

Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is typically made through visual examination by a dermatologist. Occasionally, needle extirpation may be performed to confirm the presence of viral bodies. In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary to rule out other conditions with similar skin lesions. For sexually transmitted cases, additional tests such as HIV and VDRL may be considered.

What are treatments for molluscum?

For individuals with strong immune systems, single or a few molluscum lesions may naturally resolve over time, which can take several months. Children with molluscum can often be observed as the lesions may go away on their own. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems, the infection may persist longer and require treatment to prevent spreading. Treatment is usually sought due to cosmetic concerns or the fear of spreading to new areas or contacts.

There is no antiviral medication that can directly eliminate the molluscum virus and clear the lesions. Treatments primarily focus on removing the lesions using various techniques.

Treatment options are:

• Chemical Cautery involves using specific chemicals like TCA to prick individual molluscum lesions, effectively destroying them without causing side effects, making it a popular treatment choice.
• Cryotherapy entails applying liquid nitrogen gas to lesions, freezing their growth and eventually eliminating them completely.
• Curettage involves scraping out lesions using a curette tool.
• Medical treatments include topical application of substances like cantharidin, KOH, salicylic acid, tretinoin, or podophyllotoxin, though results may vary. Oral supplements like zinc and ranitidine can also be beneficial in some cases.

CO2 laser treatment for molluscum

Both of these treatments are beneficial for large lesions, especially giant molluscum cases.

• Avoid scratching lesions to prevent infection spread.
• If lesions are on the beard area, refrain from using a razor.
• For lesions in genital areas, avoid unprotected intercourse to prevent transmission.
• Do not attempt home remedies without consulting a doctor as it can cause inflammation, incomplete removal, secondary infection, and scarring.
• Avoid sharing personal belongings with others.