Summary
Definition
This condition is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, a ubiquitous poxvirus that escapes immune destruction for months to years. Lesions are cutaneous (less commonly mucosal). They appear as pearl-like, smooth papules, which are umbilicated. The histological equivalent of epidermal collections of molluscum bodies is referred to as Henderson-Patterson bodies; virally infected keratinocytes with a central orifice. Lesions are generally caused via skin-to-skin or fomite contact in children and by sexual transmission in adults.
[1]
[Figure caption and citation for the preceding image starts]:
Extensive molluscum lesions on the flank of a young child; lesions are flesh to pearly coloured with central dells
From the collection of Dr Nanette Silverberg
[Citation ends].
History and exam
Other diagnostic factors
- surrounding erythema
- facial or groin distribution of lesions
- pruritus
- atopic dermatitis
- sleep disturbance
Risk factors
- close contact with an infected individual
- sexual contact with an infected individual
- HIV infection
- tropical climate
- swimming
- atopic dermatitis
Diagnostic investigations
Investigations to consider
- curettage biopsy
- Tzanck stain
- haematoxylin and eosin staining
- HIV test
Treatment algorithm
Contributors
Authors VIEW ALL
Professor of Primary Care Research
School of Medicine
Neuadd Meirionnydd
University Hospital of Wales
Cardiff
UK
Disclosures
NF declares that he has no competing interests.
Dr Francis would like to gratefully acknowledge Dr Nanette B. Silverberg, a previous contributor to this topic.
Peer reviewers VIEW ALL
Director of Cosmetic Dermatology
Department of Dermatology
Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatology
Henry Ford Health System
Detroit
MI
Disclosures
DMO declares that he has no competing interests.
Consultant Dermatologist
Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
Aberdeen
UK
Disclosures
None disclosed.
Staff Dermatologist
VA Medical Center
Minneapolis
MN
Disclosures
AB declares that she has no competing interests.
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