What treatment option is NOT recommended for molluscum contagiosum?

What treatment option is NOT recommended for molluscum contagiosum?

• A. Curettage for symptomatic lesions
• B. Incident self-resolution over time
• C. Use of topical steroids
• D. Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen

Answer: (C)

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that often resolves on its own without treatment. For this reason, incident self-resolution over time is considered a valid approach, as many cases clear up without intervention. Treatments like curettage and cryotherapy can be utilized for symptomatic lesions or when they are widespread, as they physically remove the lesions and help alleviate any discomfort or cosmetic concerns. However, the use of topical steroids is not recommended for treating molluscum contagiosum, as they may suppress the local immune response and could potentially worsen the infection or prolong its duration. Topical steroids do not directly address the viral nature of the infection and, therefore, do not contribute to the resolution of the lesions. Their use could lead to other complications, such as secondary bacterial infections, or may even lead to a flare in the infection itself. Overall, while several management options exist for molluscum contagiosum, topical steroids do not effectively treat the condition and may hinder its natural resolution.

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that often resolves on its own without treatment. For this reason, incident self-resolution over time is considered a valid approach, as many cases clear up without intervention. Treatments like curettage and cryotherapy can be utilized for symptomatic lesions or when they are widespread, as they physically remove the lesions and help alleviate any discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

However, the use of topical steroids is not recommended for treating molluscum contagiosum, as they may suppress the local immune response and could potentially worsen the infection or prolong its duration. Topical steroids do not directly address the viral nature of the infection and, therefore, do not contribute to the resolution of the lesions. Their use could lead to other complications, such as secondary bacterial infections, or may even lead to a flare in the infection itself.

Overall, while several management options exist for molluscum contagiosum, topical steroids do not effectively treat the condition and may hinder its natural resolution.