Poxvirus (Smallpox and Molluscum contagiosum)
Summary of Poxvirus (Smallpox and Molluscum contagiosum)
Molluscum contagiosum is a cutaneous disorder caused by the poxvirus family of viruses, the largest known DNA viruses. It presents with flesh-coloured or pearly white 2-5mm papules with central umbilication. These papules can appear anywhere on the body. In children it is usually spread through fomites or direct contact with a lesion. Sexual contact is the commonest method of spread in adults. The disease is self-limited, so no treatment is usually necessary.