Managing Molluscum Contagiosum in a 7-Year-Old Patient — Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, Texas
Molluscum contagiosum is one of the most common viral skin conditions seen in pediatric dermatology, yet it can still cause worry for parents when lesions begin to spread. At Village Dermatology, serving families throughout Katy, Texas and Houston, Texas, we frequently evaluate and treat molluscum in young children.
This case report highlights the presentation and management discussion for a 7-year-old male seen for rapidly spreading skin lesions on the back and left knee.
Chief Complaint
The patient presented as a new patient with skin lesions located on the:
Back
Left knee
The lesions were described as spreading and moderate in severity.
Clinical Examination
A comprehensive skin exam was performed, including evaluation of the:
Face
Abdomen
Back
Upper extremities
Lower extremities
The child appeared well-nourished, alert, and in no acute distress.
A dermatoscope was used for enhanced evaluation. The patient's mother was present during the exam, along with the medical assistant.
Key Findings
Dermatoscopic and clinical evaluation revealed:
Pink, shiny, umbilicated papules with a central dell, consistent with molluscum contagiosum, distributed across:
Right inferior upper back
Left inferior upper back
Left knee
Right anterior upper arm
Epigastric area
These findings confirmed the diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a benign viral skin infection that often affects children. It spreads through:
Skin-to-skin contact
Shared surfaces or objects
Water exposure (e.g., swimming pools)
Although harmless, lesions can spread and persist for months to over a year without treatment.
Management Discussion
During the visit, we discussed treatment options in depth with the patient's mother, including:
1. In-Office Treatment Options
Cantharidin (“beetle juice”)
A painless application for children
Causes mild blistering to help lesions resolve
Effective but may be uncomfortable for younger patients
2. At-Home Treatment Option
Contagiawesome (Medrock Pharmacy)
A compounded topical therapy designed specifically for molluscum
After reviewing risks, benefits, and expected outcomes, the family elected to defer treatment for now.
They were encouraged to contact the office or message through Klara if they wish to initiate therapy later.
Counseling Provided
Parents often feel overwhelmed when molluscum lesions multiply. We provided reassurance and guidance, including:
What to Expect
Molluscum is common, contagious, and benign
Lesions may spread before improving
Treatment is optional, but can speed resolution
Skin Care Tips
Avoid scratching to prevent spread
Do not share towels or sports equipment
Avoid direct lesion-to-lesion contact with siblings
When to Reach Out
Parents were advised to contact Village Dermatology if:
Lesions spread rapidly
A widespread itchy rash develops
Lesions persist or become irritated
Plan
Follow-up: As needed
Treatment: Deferred at family's request
Education: Provided on natural course, spread, and treatment options
At Village Dermatology, families in Katy and Houston, Texas can expect compassionate, evidence-based dermatologic care for both routine and complex pediatric conditions.
