Dermatologic Emergencies

dermatology-emergencieskapak-1-0-25

Molluscum Contagiosum

Betül AKBUĞA ÖZEL
Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Ankara, Türkiye

Akbuğa Özel B. Molluscum contagiosum. In: Oğuztürk H, Görmeli Kurt N, eds. Dermatologic Emergencies. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.124-30.

ABSTRACT

Molluscum contagiosum is a common, self-limiting viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, a member of the Poxviridae family. Predominantly affecting children, it also occurs in adults, particularly those who are immunocompromised or sexually active. This comprehensive review focuses on the presentation, diagnosis, and management of molluscum contagiosum in the emergency department setting. Clinically, it presents as small, firm, dome-shaped papules with central umbilication, which often leads to misdiagnosis. Transmission occurs via direct skin-to-skin contact, autoinoculation, and fomites. In the emergency department, prompt recognition is crucial to differentiate molluscum contagiosum from other dermatological conditions such as warts, varicella, and cutaneous malignancies. Diagnosis is primarily clinical but can be supported by dermatoscopy and histopathology with appropriate referral when necessary. Management is typically conservative due to the self-limiting nature of the infection; however, treatment may be necessary for bacterial infections or to prevent spread. Therapeutic options include physical removal methods such as cryotherapy and curettage, as well as topical agents like cantharidin and imiquimod. Preventive measures, including patient education on hygiene and avoiding shared personal items, are essential to reduce transmission. In immunocompromised patients, lesions may be more extensive and refractory to treatment, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach. Emergency medicine practitioners should be aware of the psychosocial impact and potential complications to provide comprehensive care. Ongoing research is needed to establish standardized treatment protocols and evaluate new therapeutic agents.

Keywords: Emergency medicine; diagnosis; molluscum contagiosum; patient care management

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