Diagnostic Images: Molluscum Contagiosum

Femela M

Consultant – Pathologist, Kauvery Hospital Radial Road, Chennai

Molluscum Contagiosum Smear Details

Henderson-Patterson bodies (large intracellular inclusion bodies containing viral particles) in a case of Molluscum contagiosum in a five-year-old child.

(A)

(B)

Fig (A) (B): Henderson-Patterson bodies.

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a poxvirus and results in small, raised, dome-shaped bumps with a dimple or pit in the center.

How it spreads

The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, such as touching the lesions of someone with the infection, or indirectly through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects like towels, clothing, or toys.

Who is affected

While more common in children, molluscum contagiosum can affect anyone, and in adults, it can be sexually transmitted.

Symptoms

The main symptom is the appearance of small, raised bumps that can be flesh-colored, pink, or white.

Treatment

Molluscum contagiosum usually clears up on its own within 6 to 12 months, and treatment is often not necessary. However, in some cases, a doctor may recommend treatments to remove the bumps, such as scraping, freezing (cryotherapy), or using medications.

Prevention

To prevent the spread of molluscum contagiosum, it’s important to avoid touching the lesions of someone with the infection, avoid sharing towels, clothing, or other personal items, and practice good hygiene.

Reference

  1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/molluscum-contagiosum/
  2. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/910570-overview

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