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Genital Molluscum — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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EasySTIsGenital MolluscumSCE Infectious Diseases

A 30-year-old woman presents with painless genital papules. Examination shows smooth pearly dome-shaped papules with central umbilication on her vulva. What is the diagnosis and management?

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Correct answer: B — Molluscum contagiosum; cryotherapy or curettage (or observation as often self-limiting in immunocompetent adults)

Smooth pearly dome-shaped papules with central umbilication (della) are diagnostic of molluscum contagiosum, caused by molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV, a poxvirus). In immunocompetent adults, genital molluscum is usually sexually transmitted. Lesions are often self-limiting (resolving in 6–12 months) but can be treated with cryotherapy, curettage, or chemical treatments for cosmetic reasons or to reduce transmission. In HIV, lesions may be extensive and persistent.

Reference: BASHH 2019 – Molluscum contagiosum; NICE CKS 2024