Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum, caused by a member of the pox virus family, is a cutaneous eruption consisting of one or more, 1 to 3 mm. diameter, flesh colored papules with a central umbilication.
Multiple lesions, at times more than 100, can occur.
Molluscum lesions in patients with a compromised immune function, such as those with AIDS, may be very much larger and more plentiful, than typical lesions. Many such patients can have thousands of large lesions, which are quite resistant to therapy.
There may be an associated inflammatory response.
Molluscum contagiosum is quite common in children. It can be contagious to other children in contact with the affected individual. In adults, groin lesions are not uncommon as molluscum contagiosum can be sexually transmitted.

Treatment:

• Chemical irritants have been used with some benefit.
• Imiquimod cream is showing promise especially in the immunosuppressed individual.
• Morphea
• Topical calciprotriol ointment may inhibit active morphea.
• PUVA has been seen to be effective in widespread morphea.
• Low-dose methotrexate shows improvement in extensive morphea.

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