Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum Contagiosum is more common in the summer than in the winter though one may come across cases throughout the year. The trunk, arms, neck and face are the usual sites of affection. Infection is picked up at gymnasia, swimming pools, play grounds, etc. it is contagious; school children are severely affected.

Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum

The lesions are usually multiple. They are seen as multiple, pearly or flesh-coloured, smooth, shiny, globular papules. The size of a papule varies from that of a pin-head to split pea. A molluscum contagiosum looks like a vesicle, but is solid and finn. The top may be flat but more commonly umbilicated. When squeezed, cheesy material is ejected. There is usually no pain except when secondary infection sets in.

Causes of Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum cantagiosum is seen as an acanthotic mass with a well-developed basal cell layer. The prickle cells become round and show eosinophilic masses (inclusion bodies) with nuclei pushed to ~e periphery. The process becomes more and more marked as the epidermal cells reach the surface. There is slight round cell infiltration in the upper corium.

Diagnosis of Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is not difficult to diagnose if the above features are remembered. Vesicles, bullae, lymphangiomas and warts can all be easily excluded.

Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum

There is no specific treatment. Lesions disappear spontaneously in few cases. In children, wart paint containing 1 part salicylic acid, 1 part lactic acid in 4 parts collodion flexible is beneficial. It is painless and gives good results. It should not be applied for more than 5-7 days. 10 per cent podophyllin paint applied for 12-24 hours is useful; avoid irritation at all costs.

Electro-coagulation is very useful in selected cases particularly adults with limited number of mollusca. Phenol application has been discarded as it is painful and children resist the application.