Molluscum contagiosum

B08.1

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Infectious disease caused by a poxvirus. Presents with dome-shaped papules with a central depression (umbilication). Varies from occasional lesions to large crops of lesions particularly in immunocompromised or HIV-infected patients.
Papules are commonly seen on the face in children, but may be found at any skin site, except on the palms and soles. They may also occur on the genitalia as an STI.
Most infections resolve spontaneously except in the immunocompromised

GENERAL MEASURES

In non-genital molluscum contagiosum:

• Allow lesions to heal spontaneously if the lesions are few in number and the patient not immunocompromised.
• In adults, contents can be expressed manually remembering it is contagious.

In genital molluscum contagiosum:

• Counsel on risk reduction for transmission of STIs.
• Notify that the partner(s) must be examined and treated.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

• Tincture of iodine BP, applied to core of individual lesions using an applicator.

CAUTION
Beware of hypersensitivity to iodine

REFERRAL

• Extensive disease.
• Those failing to respond to simple measures.
• Peri-ocular lesions to an ophthalmologist.