Which type of virus is indicated by multiple dome-shaped papules with a central core?

Which type of virus is indicated by multiple dome-shaped papules with a central core?

• A. Rubeola
• B. Molluscum contagiosum
• C. Impetigo
• D. Erythema toxicum

Answer: (B)

Molluscum contagiosum is characterized by the presence of multiple dome-shaped papules with a central indentation or core, also known as an umbilication. This viral infection is caused by a poxvirus and is commonly seen in children, although it can affect individuals of any age. The papules are typically painless and can appear anywhere on the body, often clustered together. The central core of the lesions contains a mixture of keratin and viral particles, which can be expressed if the lesions are manipulated. In contrast, rubeola (measles) typically presents with a distinct rash that starts as flat red spots and often includes koplik spots in the mouth, not dome-shaped papules. Impetigo, a bacterial skin infection, generally manifests as crusted lesions that are usually honey-colored and can be pustular but do not have the characteristic central core of molluscum contagiosum. Erythema toxicum is a common neonatal rash that presents as small red spots or bumps with a yellowish or white center, which again differs significantly from the appearance of the dome-shaped papules seen in molluscum contagiosum.

Molluscum contagiosum is characterized by the presence of multiple dome-shaped papules with a central indentation or core, also known as an umbilication. This viral infection is caused by a poxvirus and is commonly seen in children, although it can affect individuals of any age. The papules are typically painless and can appear anywhere on the body, often clustered together. The central core of the lesions contains a mixture of keratin and viral particles, which can be expressed if the lesions are manipulated.

In contrast, rubeola (measles) typically presents with a distinct rash that starts as flat red spots and often includes koplik spots in the mouth, not dome-shaped papules. Impetigo, a bacterial skin infection, generally manifests as crusted lesions that are usually honey-colored and can be pustular but do not have the characteristic central core of molluscum contagiosum. Erythema toxicum is a common neonatal rash that presents as small red spots or bumps with a yellowish or white center, which again differs significantly from the appearance of the dome-shaped papules seen in molluscum contagiosum.