What are the treatment options for molluscum contagiosum?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 27 year old female. I believe I have molluscum contagiosum on my genital area. I have had approximately 20 bumps for the last eight months. I have been self extracting these bumps. I have not had a new bump for approximately four weeks, however have had some bumps for approximately eight weeks, I am not sure if I am able to send a photo. They do not look exactly like what the other molluscum has looked like as they were bigger, more firm, etc., however I do feel like this must be molluscum as I am not sure what else it could be. I am currently taking Lanzoprazole. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the details and images provided from your end and I do understand your concern.

From the images (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), it is Molluscum contagiousum. Usually, Molluscum contagiousum which is a viral infection subsides on its own without any treatment. But it may take even up to 2 years for them to completely subside without any treatment. Although they are harmless, they may spread to another individual through close contact or even spread to form more satellite lesions close to the current lesions. Therefore, medications may also be started to dry them out for a speedy recovery. Medications also may take time to show results but definitely, the recovery would be faster.

The ideal way for complete elimination of the lesions would be to have them extracted either by manual expression or by a treatment via radiofrequency electrocauterization or laser which burns them out. Manual expression as you have done earlier has an issue of spreading or formation of new lesions if the material inside the lesions touches the adjacent unaffected skin. Therefore, extraction is only advised to be done by a professional. As your doctor has advised biopsy, the reason could be because it is long-standing and due to the recurrence of the lesions.

It is good to confirm the diagnosis through a biopsy which is a simple procedure. Since your doctor has inspected the lesions and advised biopsy, I would advise you to follow his expert opinion since it would be helpful to prevent further recurrences. Apart from the same, it is important to build upon a strong immunity through consuming a balanced diet and consuming Zinc acetate 50 mg tablets once daily one hour after dinner. This would help in strengthening your immunity as a weak immunity may trigger Molluscum. Zinc oxide or Acyclovir ointment may also be used twice daily on the affected area for speedy recovery. Avoiding close contact with infected individuals is very important as well.

I hope I could be of help.

Thank you.