Atypical Presentation of Molluscum Contagiosum on the Thorax: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection in the pediatric population caused by a virus belonging to the Poxviridae family, characterized by the appearance of progressively growing umbilicated pearly papules. Although it commonly affects the face, extremities, and trunk, extensive or atypical forms may represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We present the case of an 8-year-old immunocompetent male patient with multiple lesions predominantly located on the thoracic region with four months of evolution, associated with pruritus and progressive dissemination. Physical examination revealed multiple pearly hemispheric papules with central umbilication and grouped distribution on the anterior and right lateral thorax. Due to the unusual clinical presentation, dermoscopy and skin biopsy were performed, confirming the diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum through histopathological findings compatible with intracytoplasmic Henderson-Patterson bodies. Treatment consisted of selective curettage of the main lesions and complementary topical therapy associated with hygienic and dermatological measures to reduce autoinoculation. The patient showed satisfactory clinical evolution, adequate healing, and progressive resolution of the lesions without major complications. This case highlights the importance of considering molluscum contagiosum among the differential diagnoses of thoracic papular lesions in pediatric patients, as well as the usefulness of clinical and histopathological approaches for establishing timely and individualized treatment.
Authors: Sergio Morales Acosta, Ángel de Jesús Ramos Fuentes, Ana Paulina Romero Hernández, Mariana García Morales, Lucero Angelica Mastache Dorantes, Zubeyda Patricia Gutiérrez García, Claudia Jissel Luna Martínez, Michelle Quezada Ravelo, Melisa González Rios, Montserrat Pulido Ramírez, Madyurit Ramirez Gutierrez
Language: English
Subfield: Virology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7166324684
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