dermatologic disorders
Molluscum Contagiosum
Introduction
Molluscum contagiosum is characterized by clusters of pink, dome-shaped, smooth, waxy, or pearly and umbilicated papules 2 to 5 mm in diameter caused by molluscum contagiosum virus, a poxvirus. Diagnosis is based on clinical appearance. Treatment is aimed at preventing spread or removing cosmetically unacceptable lesions and can include mechanical methods (eg, curettage, cryosurgery) and topical irritants (eg,cantharidin,tretinoin). Molluscum contagiosum virus commonly causes a localized chronic infection. Transmission is by direct contact; spread occurs by autoinoculation and via fomites (eg, towels, bath sponges) and bath water. Adults acquire the infection via close skin-to-skin contact with an infected person (eg, sexual contact, wrestling). Patients with immunocompromise (eg, due to HIV/AIDS, corticosteroid use, or chemotherapy) may develop a more widespread infection ( General references , Molluscum contagiosum is common among children. 