What is the typical appearance of molluscum contagiosum lesions?

What is the typical appearance of molluscum contagiosum lesions?

• A. Pearly dome-shaped, umbilicated papules
• B. Flat, scaly patches
• C. Secreting crusted lesions
• D. Vesicular pustules in crops

Answer: (A)

Molluscum contagiosum presents as small, firm, dome-shaped papules that are pale to flesh-colored with a central depression (umbilication). They are usually 2–5 mm and may occur singly or in clusters, often on the face, trunk, and extremities in children. The central umbilication is a distinctive hallmark and results from viral material within the plug being pushed outward. They are smooth and not typically crusted or vesicular, which is why descriptions like flat scaly patches, crusted lesions, or vesicular crops don’t fit. The pearly dome-shaped, umbilicated papules best describe these lesions.

Molluscum contagiosum presents as small, firm, dome-shaped papules that are pale to flesh-colored with a central depression (umbilication). They are usually 2–5 mm and may occur singly or in clusters, often on the face, trunk, and extremities in children. The central umbilication is a distinctive hallmark and results from viral material within the plug being pushed outward. They are smooth and not typically crusted or vesicular, which is why descriptions like flat scaly patches, crusted lesions, or vesicular crops don’t fit. The pearly dome-shaped, umbilicated papules best describe these lesions.