Rosh Pediatrics Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common finding in children with molluscum contagiosum?

1. Pustules on the face

2. Flesh-colored papules with umbilicated centers

3. Red scaling plaques

4. Verrucous lesions

The correct answer is: Flesh-colored papules with umbilicated centers

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus, commonly seen in children. It is characterized by the presence of flesh-colored papules, which typically have a distinctive umbilicated or dimpled center. This umbilication is a key feature that helps differentiate molluscum contagiosum from other skin lesions. The flesh-colored papules can range in size and usually appear on various parts of the body, such as the trunk and limbs, but may also occur on the face. The lesions are generally painless and may be mistaken for other dermatological conditions, but the unique umbilication is what specifically identifies them as molluscum contagiosum. In contrast, pustules on the face, red scaling plaques, and verrucous lesions are indicative of other conditions. Pustules are often seen in bacterial infections or inflammatory conditions, red scaling plaques might suggest eczema or psoriasis, and verrucous lesions are commonly associated with warts or other papillomatous infections. Thus, the characteristic flesh-colored papules with umbilicated centers are the definitive finding for molluscum contagiosum.