Pediatric molluscum: an update

Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is a poxvirus that causes infection in humans that is limited to the cutis and subcutaneous levels of the skin. The virus is transmitted from close associates in settings such as pools, day care, and bathtubs. Pediatric molluscum is common in school-aged children and resolves spontaneously in healthy children. Widespread lesions, complicated by comorbid dermatitis, are expected in children with atopic dermatitis (AD); however, even children without AD can develop dermatitis or signs of inflammation or pruritus. Molluscum is the great mimicker in pediatric dermatology; the morphology of the lesions and overlying rash can make molluscum look polymorphous and similar to other skin illnesses. This article addresses the issue of transmission, course of disease, comorbidities, and therapeutic options, including the gold standard-nonintervention. The decision to intervene is a joint decision among children, parents/guardians, and the practitioner. The first priority should be reduction of symptoms, followed by reduction of spread and then disease remission.