Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum: Symptoms and Methods

Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious, epidermal proliferative disease caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), a member of the Poxviridae family. What are the symptoms and treatment options for molluscum contagiosum?

Symptoms and Treatment Options for Molluscum Contagiosum

The primary clinical manifestation of molluscum contagiosum involves one or multiple small, reddish, dome-shaped papules—commonly appearing on the genitalia—often accompanied by pruritus. These lesions rapidly evolve into small vesicles; within 3–5 days, they progress to pustules. Subsequently, the lesions rupture, leading to erosion, ulceration, and crusting, often associated with pain. Lesions may occur singly or multiply and may coalesce. In male patients, molluscum contagiosum most commonly affects the glans penis, coronal sulcus, penile shaft, perianal region, and urethral meatus. Some patients also develop extragenital lesions, primarily involving the lips, fingers, buttocks, thighs, and arms.

Molluscum contagiosum is typically managed using one or more of the following approaches: - Physical removal with topical antiseptic: The lesion is first disinfected locally with iodophor; then, a sterile needle punctures the central umbilication, and the molluscum body is expressed using a hemostat. Finally, 2% iodine tincture is applied topically twice daily for 5–7 consecutive days. - Laser therapy: After local anesthesia, carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser ablation is performed to destroy the molluscum bodies, followed by topical application of 2% iodine tincture. - Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is applied to the lesion using a cotton-tipped applicator.

Although molluscum contagiosum is contagious, in most cases it resolves spontaneously within 5–10 months without leaving scars. However, during active infection and treatment, patients must avoid direct physical contact with others and refrain from using shared public facilities. Close adherence to and cooperation with clinical management prescribed by healthcare providers remains paramount. We hope this information has been helpful!