BACKGROUND: Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin that is widely considered to be a self-resolving disease that can be treated with benign neglect. However, the clinical reality is that the disease can vary widely by anatomic site and by recalcitrance to treatment and remains a significant cause of morbidity worldwide. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review was to compile an updated resource for clinicians that addresses the management of the broad spectrum of molluscum cases that may be encountered. METHODS: A comprehensive PubMed search was performed to identify publications on the treatment of molluscum infection, including presentations that may be rare or difficult. RESULTS: The specific clinical scenario of molluscum must be considered when selecting the optimal therapy because certain treatments can be more effective for specific patient subpopulations. CONCLUSION: Further attention must be directed toward standardizing treatment for molluscum infection based on patient age and immune status.
BACKGROUND: Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin that is widely considered to be a self-resolving disease that can be treated with benign neglect. However, the clinical reality is that the disease can vary widely by anatomic site and by recalcitrance to treatment and remains a significant cause of morbidity worldwide. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review was to compile an updated resource for clinicians that addresses the management of the broad spectrum of molluscum cases that may be encountered. METHODS: A comprehensive PubMed search was performed to identify publications on the treatment of molluscum infection, including presentations that may be rare or difficult. RESULTS: The specific clinical scenario of molluscum must be considered when selecting the optimal therapy because certain treatments can be more effective for specific patient subpopulations. CONCLUSION: Further attention must be directed toward standardizing treatment for molluscum infection based on patient age and immune status.