Molluscum Contagiosum Skin Condition : What Is It ? Treatment and Advice For Patient
This is a common and harmless pox virus infection of the skin. Molluscum contagiosum can be spread from person to person (especially children) by direct skin contact. This appears to be more likely in wet conditions, such as when children bathe, swim together or share towels.
Approximate age group
This condition commonly affects infants and young children but adults can also be infected.
Presentation
Small 1-5mm white, pink or brown umbilicated papules. They often have a waxy, pinkish look. The lesions can be found anywhere on the skin but often occur in moist places such as armpit, groin or behind the knees. There may only be a few or multiple lesions. As they resolve they may become inflamed or red in colour and crusted. They last for months or occasionally a couple of years. It frequently induces dermatitis in the infected area with lesions becoming dry, pink and itchy. An itchy rash may also appear on distant sites as the body mounts an immunological reaction to the virus.
Treatment
There is no single treatment for molluscum contagiosum and, as it is self -limiting, in many no specific medical treatment is necessary and the papules will disappear spontaneously. If a secondary infection occurs, treat with a topical antiseptic (e.g.1% hydrogen peroxide cream) or antiseptic washes.
Advice to parent/carer
Highlight that as the papules disappear, they may occasionally leave tiny pit-like scars.
Traffic light
The lesions tend to be more numerous and last longer in children who also have atopic eczema. Local dermatology nurses can help with education and support.
Molluscum Contagiosum Skin Condition, Natural Treatment, Diseases, Skin Condition
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