Molluscum Contagiosum
Paul Stricker
BasicsAssociated Complications
STDs possible
Description
Definition
Superficial pox virus skin infection
Risk Factors
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Close physical contact/sports (ie, wrestling)
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Sexual contact
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Autoinoculation
Diagnosis-
Nonpruritic rash
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Located at the axilla/arm, chest wall, perineum, and upper thigh
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∼1.5-mm, smooth, pearly, flesh-colored papules with umbilication
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No associated prodrome, fever, or illness
History
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How long has it been there?
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Does it itch?
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Any blisters? (usually more associated with herpetic lesions)
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Do new lesions keep appearing?
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Sexually active or previous STD?
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Contact sports participation?
Physical Exam
Small, raised, 1–2-mm, flesh-colored umbilicated lesions containing white core substance
Differential Diagnosis
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Acne/ectopic sebaceous glands
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Warts
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Ingrown hairs
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Molluscum contagiosum
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Basal. cell epithelioma
P.393
TreatmentAcute Treatment
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Gentle destruction. Options include:
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Deroofing the lesion individually, which hastens resolution
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Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen
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Chemical therapy, using retinoic acid or salicylic acid
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Other:
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Refrain from contact activities until lesions are healed
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Cover lesions
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If untreated, usually last 6–9 mos but can persist for years
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Additional Reading
Levandowski R, Keogh G, Mullane J. Sports dermatology. In: Mellion MB, ed. Sports medicine secrets. Philadelphia: Hanley & Belfus, 1994:189–193.
Mellman MF, Podesta L. Common medical problems in sports. Clin Sports Med. 1997;16:635–662.
CodesICD9
078.0 Molluscum contagiosum
Clinical Pearls
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Molluscum contagiosum can be contracted from another athlete via close contact, such as football or wrestling.
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Molluscum contagiosum is contagious and it is spread by physical or sexual contact. Should keep them covered when participating; ideally, athletes should wait to resume contact sports for 24–48 hr after lesions are gone.