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Molluscum Natural History — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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HardDermatologyMolluscum Natural HistoryRACP Paediatrics

A 7-year-old with severe atopic dermatitis has many molluscum lesions. Several become erythematous and crusted as the surrounding eczema flares, but there is no purulent exudate, abscess, fever or spreading erythema. What is the best management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Optimise eczema care and observe the molluscum rather than prescribe routine antibiotics

Explanation lettering: E = shown as C · C = shown as D · D = shown as E

A is correct because molluscum is self-limiting and associated dermatitis should be treated; inflammation alone commonly reflects immune response and does not require antibiotics without bacterial features. B overcalls infection. C adds pain and scarring without routine benefit. D is unnecessary because school exclusion is not recommended. E worsens the eczema and scratching that promote autoinoculation. Dermatology input is reasonable when quality of life, diagnostic doubt or immunocompromise changes the balance.

Reference: Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Molluscum contagiosum: https://www.rch.org.au/clinicalguide/guideline_index/molluscum_guideline/