A case series of giant molluscum contagiosum in an immigrant African pediatric population

Abstract

Giant molluscum contagiosum (MC) has a well-known association with human immunodeficiency virus and other immune deficiency states. Although rare, it can be seen in healthy immunocompetent children. We describe eight cases of giant MC in healthy, immunocompetent African immigrant children in the Columbus, Ohio area. This report describes the clinical characteristics, treatment, and course of giant MC in this patient population.

Molluscum Contagiosum Masquerading: Diagnosing Giant Lesions in an Unfamiliar Territory

“…Immunocompetent individuals with MC infections typically do not require specific medications as the lesions eventually disappear spontaneously. 1,5,11…”

“…Atypical lesions of MC may occur in patients with altered or impaired immunity, such as those with atopic dermatitis, after long-term use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy, sarcoidosis, leukemias and especially in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome. 1,[7][8][9][10] These lesions can mimic a wide range of other conditions and often grow to a large size on an unusual site.…”

“…Immunocompetent individuals with MC infections typically do not require specific medications as the lesions eventually disappear spontaneously. 1,5,11 MC has an unusual nodular variation known as giant MC, which measures 0.5-1 cm in diameter or more. This clinical appearance can resemble viral warts, amelanotic melanoma, furuncles, intradermal nevi, basal cell carcinoma and kerathoacanthoma.…”

“…This clinical appearance can resemble viral warts, amelanotic melanoma, furuncles, intradermal nevi, basal cell carcinoma and kerathoacanthoma. 1,3,9 These lesions are rare in healthy individuals and may be linked to immune system disorders such as acquired immune deficiency syndrome, sarcoidosis, leukemias, corticosteroid and immunosuppressive medication, atopic dermatitis, and Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome. Atypical lesions of MC can develop frequently, grow to a large size, and spread widely to unusual body areas.…”

“…It primarily affects children, sexually active adults and immunocompromised individuals, particularly those infected with HIV. [1][2][3][4][5] In healthy children, 70% of cases usually resolve spontaneously within 18 months, indicating that the illness course is often self-limited. Clinically, MC presents as small, raised, round papules on the skin with a pearly surface.…”