BACKGROUND: Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection seen mostly in children. A topical treatment modality for this condition is therefore desirable.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of Imiquimod 5% cream in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in Filipino children.
METHODS: Thirty Filipino children age 3 to 18 seen at the Philippine General Hospital outpatient dermatology clinic diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum were enrolled in this open label study. Imiquimod 5% cream was applied to each molluscum lesion and washed off after a contact time of 10 to 12 hours. Resolution of lesions and occurrence of systemic and local side effect were monitored.
RESULTS: Out of the twenty-four (80%) patients who completed the study, 5 (21%) had a less than or equal to 50% decrease in the number of lesions, 14 (58%) a greater than 50% decrease in the number of lesions, and 5 (21%) had complete resolution of all their mollusca. The target lesion resolved in 14 (58%) of the patients. No systemic side effect was observed. While mild to moderate erythema, pruritus, or erosion and mild pain and crusting were the only local side effects noted.
CONCLUSION: This study shows the possible effectiveness of Imiquimod 5% cream in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children. This topical medication has no systemic side effect and is well tolerated.