Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a benign viral infection of the skin caused by a pox virus, the molluscum contagiosum virus. It results in the formation of localised clusters of papules on the skin and is more prevalent in infants and children under 10 years of age especially those who live in warm climates and/or overcrowded conditions. The papules called mollusca have a waxy, shiny look and are umbilicated and each papule contains white cheesy material. The virus can spread via direct skin to skin contact as well as indirect contact, hence certain measures are required to prevent its spread. These measures include maintaining hygiene such as keeping hands clean, not sharing towels and clothing and covering visible lesions with bandages. There is no specific treatment for molluscum contagiosum. The most effective treatment options include cryotherapy, curettage, laser therapy, and topical therapy (use of podophyllotoxin cream, imiquimod).
