It is an infection caused by a virus that mainly affects children and causes the appearance of pearly lesions on the skin.
It is caused by the Poxvirus which is transmitted by direct contact with a skin lesion or with a previously contaminated object. In adults it is transmitted by sexual contact and immunocompromised persons are more likely to become infected.
The onset of symptoms manifests with the appearance of a small papule on the face, neck, armpits, arms, hands or genitals, which later becomes a larger pinkish, pearly nodule and may be grouped in rows or mounds.
Diagnosis is based on clinical history and physical examination. In case of doubt, a biopsy may be necessary.
Sometimes the lesions disappear spontaneously, but sometimes they need to be removed by surgery or laser.
If an infection of this type is suspected, it is advisable to see a specialist for evaluation.
- C. L. Pimentel, L. Peramiquel, L. Puig. Molusco contagioso. Farm Prof. 2004;18(3):72-77.
- MedlinePlus. Rockville. 2017. Molusco contagioso; [citado el 18 de julio de 2017]. Disponible en: https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/000826.htm
- CuidatePlus. Madrid. 2017. Molusco contagioso; [citado el 18 de julio de 2017]. Disponible en: http://www.cuidateplus.com/enfermedades/dermatologicas/molusco-contagioso.html
- UpToDate [Internet]. Waltham. 2017. Molluscum contagiosum; [citado el 18 de julio de 2017]. Disponible en: http://www.uptodate.com/contents/molluscum-contagiosum?source=search_result&search=molusco+contagioso&selectedTitle=1~45
