title: An update on molluscum contagiosum.
abstract: Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral infection of the skin, and occasionally the mucous membranes, manifesting as benign tumors. The characteristic appearance is of pearly, umbilicated papules. The disease is self-limited in immunocompetent hosts, but may be protracted in those who are immunocompromised. Multiple local therapeutic options are available; the use of systemic agents has been reported in recalcitrant cases or in patients in whom topical therapy is difficult to apply.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455-0392, USA.
authors.forename: E J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Lewis
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lam
authors.forename: C E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Crutchfield
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D008297:Male; D008976:Molluscum Contagiosum / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*