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Background/Objectives: Cidofovir, an antiviral drug approved for cytomegalovirus retinitis, has emerged as an alternative treatment option for virally induced cutaneous and mucocutaneous conditions, as well as being trialed as a treatment for select neoplasms. In this review, we highlight the existing evidence, clinical uses, and rationale of using cidofovir for the treatment of cutaneous pathologies. Methods: A PubMed database literature search was conducted to identify relevant articles for inclusion in this review. Results: Cidofovir has several cutaneous applications in various formulations including intravenous, topical, and subcutaneous administrations. Primarily through case reports, case series, and retrospective reviews, cidofovir has demonstrated efficacy in treating a variety of virally induced conditions-verruca vulgaris, herpes simplex virus, molluscum contagiosum-as well as in adjuvant treatment for select neoplasms. The drug has shown efficacy in immunocompromised and immunocompetent adults and children alike. Conclusions: The body of literature supports the use of cidofovir as an effective and well-tolerated treatment for many viral cutaneous pathologies, and encourages further study for its use as an adjuvant therapy for neoplastic disease.

In the first half of 2024, the US FDA approved several new drugs that have relevance for those practicing in primary care. This article, the winter 2025 edition of the journal's biannual Drug Update, highlights the following new medications: sotatercept-csrk (Winrevair), aprocitentan (Tryvio), resmetirom (Rezdiffra), berdazimer (Zelsuvmi), ceftobiprole medocaril sodium (Zevtera), sofpironium (Sofdra), and ensifentrine (Ohtuvayre). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diaper dermatoses broadly refer to skin disorders that occur in the diaper area. Dermoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that magnifies subsurface structures of the skin that are invisible to the unaided eye. Aim: To identify and describe the dermoscopic features of dermatoses in the diaper area. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional clinical study was conducted, which included 100 children below five years of age with dermatoses in the diaper area. The lesions were initially observed clinically and then under a dermoscope (Dermlite 4, 3GEN Inc., San Juan Capistrano, CA, USA). Findings were recorded and photographed. Results: Of the 100 enrolled children, infectious dermatoses were observed in 46 cases, predominantly comprising scabies and tinea cruris, followed by intertrigo, molluscum contagiosum, and varicella. The most common dermoscopic feature of scabies was a jet wing with a contrail, whereas scaling, red-brown, and grey-brown dots and globules were observed in tinea cruris. Of the non-infectious dermatoses, contact dermatitis and vitiligo were the most common. Dermoscopy revealed irregular-dotted vessels and white structureless areas in cases of contact dermatitis. An absent pigment network and white structureless areas with leukotrichia and white glow were seen in vitiligo, which helped differentiate it from nevus depigmentosus. Limitations: Single-center study with a limited sample size for each condition and histopathological confirmation could not be performed. Conclusion: This study highlights the dermoscopic features of diaper dermatoses and demonstrates the potential of dermoscopy to enhance diagnostic accuracy and optimize patient care without invasive investigations, underscoring its unique role in pediatric dermatology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Methods Results Conclusions Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), a zoonotic disease caused by Monkeypox virus (MPXV), has become an international outbreak since May 2022. Mpox often presents with a mild systemic illness and a characteristic vesiculopustular skin eruption. In addition to molecular testing, histopathology of cutaneous lesions usually shows distinctive findings, such as epidermal necrosis, balloon degeneration, papillary dermal edema, and focal dermal necrosis, which have proven helpful in the diagnosis of mpox. Viral cytopathic changes with areas of multinucleation, smudging of the nuclei, and intracytoplasmic inclusions have also been described. Although useful, these features are relatively nonspecific. The use of a monoclonal antibody for immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of MPXV may be a useful tool in confirming mpox infection.Three cases of PCR‐confirmed mpox were biopsied and subjected to IHC staining with a monoclonal MPXV‐specific antibody targeting viral envelope protein A29. As controls, cell lines transduced to express other MPXV viral antigens and samples of cutaneous viral infections involving Molluscum contagiosum, Herpes simplex, Herpes zoster, or Cytomegalovirus were also subjected to IHC staining with this antibody.All three mpox patient biopsies performed on lesional skin subjected to MPXV IHC staining reliably detected viral infection in lesional skin with a diffuse cytoplasmic and focally nuclear staining pattern. No staining was seen in transduced cell lines expressing off‐target MPXV viral antigens and in lesional skin of other common viral infections listed above.The monoclonal MPXV‐specific antibody may be used as an adjunct tool to confirm mpox infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This literature review aims to comprehensively evaluate the clinical and dermoscopic presentations of common pediatric diseases among children with skin of color (SoC) while also addressing potential variations based on racial backgrounds. This review encompasses various conditions, such as nevi subtypes, viral infections, infestations, and inflammatory dermatoses, as well as hair diseases and abnormal vascular formations, occurring in pediatric populations. Overall, we identified 7 studies on nevi subtypes, 24 studies on skin infections, 6 on inflammatory dermatoses, 10 on hair diseases and disorders, and 14 on miscellaneous disorders that also satisfied our SoC- and race-specific criteria. In case of no results, we assumed that dermoscopic findings are similar between SoC adults and children, confirming the hypothesis with our cases of dark-skinned Indian child patients. Inflammatory dermatoses such as psoriasis, eczema, and cutaneous mastocytosis, as well as skin infections like cutaneous leishmaniasis, appear with brownish backgrounds or exhibit dark structures more frequently than the respective dermoscopy images of Caucasian populations. Dermoscopy traits such as erythema in tinea capitis are uncommon or even absent on a dark-colored scalp, while a dark skin tone often obscures many characteristic features, such as dark and yellow dots in alopecia areata and even parts of an intradermal parasite in the case of scabies. Race-specific traits were also observed, such as corkscrew hair in tinea capitis, primarily seen in patients of African origin. Many dermoscopic images are consistent between SoC and non-SoC in various skin lesions, including vascular anomalies, juvenile xanthogranuloma, mastocytoma, and viral skin lesions like molluscum contagiosum, as well as in various hair disorders such as trichotillomania, while tinea capitis displays the most diverse reported dermoscopic features across SoC- and race-specific studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Familial syringomas were diagnosed in a 37‐year‐old female with lesions on the vulva/face/trunk and with periorbital lesions in family members. A correct and early diagnosis of vulvar syringomas is important as these can be erroneously diagnosed as a STI (warts/molluscum contagiosum) which may result in unnecessary psychological distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a case of a 4-year-old child from India with a novel CARMIL2 defect, leading to eczematoid lesions and extensive molluscum contagiosum. The child presented with recurrent itching, redness, and pneumonia, along with immunological abnormalities such as reduced CD4+ T lymphocytes. Molecular assays revealed a homozygous splice-site defect in CARMIL2, and the child underwent cryotherapy and started on prophylactic treatments. The study highlights the importance of considering CARMIL2 deficiency in patients with early-onset eczema and skin viral infections. [Extracted from the article]

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common skin infection caused by a poxvirus, primarily affecting children and immunocompromised adults. It manifests as single or multiple raised, pearl-like papules and is highly contagious, spreading through skin contact or contaminated objects. Traditional treatments include cryosurgery, curettage, and pulsed dye laser ablation. However, in early 2024, berdazimer topical gel, 10.3% (ZELSUVMITM), was approved as the first topical treatment for MC. This review explores the potential of Zelsuvmi gel as a significant advancement in treatment due to its nitric oxide (NO)-producing properties. NO is a naturally occurring molecule in the body with multiple roles, including immune defense, antimicrobial activity, and modulation of apoptosis, inflammation, and cytokine production. The novel mechanism of action of Zelsuvmi, utilizing NO’s antiviral properties, has demonstrated compelling efficacy in clinical settings. The article also considers the broader implications of this treatment, not only for current dermatological practice but also for future research into innovative therapies for viral skin infections. Through an evaluation of clinical data, this review highlights Zelsuvmi’s potential to transform treatment approaches for MC, offering a non-invasive, effective option that may influence both clinical management and future prevention strategies.

Intralesional radiofrequency (ILRF) ablation is a novel and safe dermatosurgical technique which, unlike conventional radiofrequency, minimizes the risk of epidermal scarring by precisely targeting the reticular dermis. ILRF’s simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and cosmetic advantages make it an attractive option for treating various skin conditions. While ILRF has found applications in various fields beyond dermatology, there exists a scarcity of data concerning its safety and effectiveness in dermatology. We successfully utilized this novel technique to manage conditions such as lymphangioma circumscriptum and molluscum contagiosum, highlighting the promising impact and benefits of this approach.

Abstract Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common skin infection affecting children globally, including in Israel, which has a diverse population comprising mainly Jews (73.2%) and Arabs (21.1%). Despite documented disparities in various diseases between these groups, research on differences in dermatological care is scarce. This study aimed to investigate MC as a potential differentiator between Arab and Jewish children. A retrospective analysis of MC cases among children (0–18 years) from 2013 to 2022 was performed at Soroka University Medical Center, a tertiary hospital serving over a million patients. 615 patients participated in our study, with 95.2% Jewish and 4.8% Arab. Both groups showed similar characteristics in lesion quantity (P = 0.535), diameter (P = 0.341), inflammation markers, and lesion location. Additionally, management, treatment response, and outcomes were found to be similar between the two groups. In conclusion, the Arab representation in the study was disproportionately low compared to their population in the area. While Jewish patients may rely more on medical specialists, we believe Arabs may prefer self-management practices, such as the use of traditional medicine, possibly hindering effective physician-led care. Understanding such disparities could improve dermatological care by tailoring approaches to diverse populations.

Introduction: Dermoscopy of mucosa is known as mucoscopy. Mucoscopy can aid in delineating minute aspects of mucosal lesions and will guide in the differentiation of similar-looking lesions. To date, there are only a few studies on mucoscopy of genital dermatoses especially from India. Aim and Objectives: The study aims to describe mucoscopic features and correlate histopathologically in various genital mucosal diseases. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary care center in Central India after IHEC approval between October 2020 and April 2022, and the sampling technique was based on a convenience purposive method. Any genital mucosal diseases were included in patients above 18 years of age. Sexually transmitted diseases in general were excluded, however, warts and molluscum contagiosum were included. All patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were examined after proper informed consent, and the clinical images were photographed using iPhone 11. Dermoscopic images were taken using a DermLite DL4 dermoscope in polarized mode at 10X magnification. Results: A total of 206 patients were recruited, and mucoscopy features were analyzed. Dermoscopic findings of physiological conditions such as vestibular papillomatosis, pearly penile papules, and Fordyce spots were evaluated. Inflammatory conditions such as lichen planus, pemphigus, and psoriasis were analyzed. Mucoscopy of lichen sclerosus showed white structureless areas (100%), follicular plugs (35%), as well as dotted and linear vessels (80%). Circinate balanitis revealed regular red dotted vessels (100%), coalescing pustules in annular and polycyclic patterns (90%). Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis showed ulceration, serpentine, looped vessels, white structureless area, and yellow-brown crust in a pink background. Limitations: In our study, because of the inclusion of various diseases, sample size was inadequate, biopsies were not performed in all cases, and variations in mucoscopic features in patients who are already on therapy could not be assessed. Haziness while capturing pictures because of mist formation was hindering the quality of pictures. As patients with premalignant and malignant cases were less, the predicting features for malignant transformation or pathognomoniic signs could not be assessed. Conclusion: Various dermoscopies have been studied extensively, but the mucoscopy is still a gray area. The results of this study revealed the dermoscopic features of various genital disorders and histopathological correlation in few cases. However, biopsy was not performed in all mucosal disorders; hence, conclusive correlation could not be extrapolated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the use of Ultraviolet Reflectance Dermoscopy (UVRD) in dermatological examinations, highlighting its applications in diagnosing various skin conditions such as vitiligo, melasma, and acne vulgaris. UVRD can enhance the visualization of pigmentary patterns, sebaceous gland openings, and scabietic burrows, aiding in the diagnosis and follow-up of these conditions. Additionally, UVRD can be useful in evaluating premature canities, regrowing hairs in alopecia areata, and identifying features like the UV blink sign in seborrheic keratosis. The integration of dermoscopy with UV light offers a promising tool for diagnostic dermatology, providing clearer insights into skin conditions under magnification with UV light. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: The skin is the largest and most visible organ of the human body. As such, skin infections can have a significant impact on overall health, social wellbeing and self‐image. In 2019, we published a systematic review of the treatment, prevention and public health control of skin infections including impetigo, scabies, crusted scabies and tinea in resource‐limited settings where skin infections are endemic. This current review serves as an update to assess the evidence for treatment of these conditions as well as atopic dermatitis, molluscum contagiosum and head lice in endemic settings. The data from this systematic review have supported an update to the Australian National Healthy Skin guidelines. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using two separate searches in MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane and Web of Science. The first search was an update of the 2018 systematic review using the same search strategy for the same skin conditions to identify emerging literature from 2018 to 2022. The second search strategy used the same key terms but with the addition of atopic dermatitis, head lice and molluscum contagiosum from 1960 to 2022. Eligible studies included Indigenous peoples and populations in resource‐limited settings with a diagnosis of impetigo, scabies, crusted scabies, tinea capitis, atopic dermatitis, molluscum contagiosum or who presented with head lice. Studies conducted in high‐income countries were excluded. Articles were screened for inclusion independently by one author with a second group of reviewers independently double screening. Data extraction and an in‐depth quality assessment conducted by one author and checked by two others. Results: Of 1466 original articles identified, 68 studies were included and key findings outlined for impetigo, scabies, crusted scabies, atopic dermatitis, head lice and molluscum contagiosum. Recommendations for each condition based on the available evidence are provided. Conclusion: The importance of assessing literature relevant to the populations with heavy burden of skin infections is outlined in this systematic review. We have summarised updates to this literature, which may benefit in developing guidelines for skin infection management similar to the National Healthy Skin Guidelines for Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cantharidin, a natural toxin produced by the blister beetle, is a topical agent that induces acantholysis of the epidermis, breaking down desmosome plaques through the release of serine proteases. Cantharidin is available in three liquid forms: Ycanth (0.7%), Canthacur (0.7%), and Canthacur PS (1% cantharidin, 30% salicylic acid, 2% podophyllotoxin). Ycanth is used to treat molluscum contagiosum (MC). Canthacur is routinely used to treat a variety of dermatologic conditions including MC, plantar warts, and common warts, whereas Canthacur PS is a more potent formulation indicated for treatment of plantar warts only. The objective of this review is to highlight the efficacy, safety, and diverse use of topical cantharidin in the treatment of various skin conditions. Conditions in which treatment with topical cantharidin yielded a good-to-excellent response include MC, plantar warts, and common warts. Topical cantharidin treatment of anogenital warts yielded mixed results. None of the indications reviewed herein yielded a poor response to topical cantharidin. Overall, topical cantharidin resulted in a good-to-excellent clinical response in several conditions with mild and transient adverse events. The results of this review suggest the safe and efficacious use of topical cantharidin in the field of dermatology and highlight the potential for future use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the benefits of 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) and 0.05% tretinoin in the management of molluscum contagiosum (MC) in children. Methods In the present study, thirty patients presenting with MC in the paediatric age group were sorted into two groups of 15 each randomly; Group A and Group B. Group A patients were advised to apply 10% KOH and those in group B 0.05% tretinoin cream daily on the lesions and were followed up every 2 weeks till 8 weeks. Results At the end of 8th weeks, 14 (93.3%) patients showed complete response in Group A (KOH group). In Group B (tretinoin group), 7 (46.7%) patients showed good response while 7 (46.7%) patients showed complete response. At all stages of assessment (2, 4, 6, 8 weeks), results in group A were better when compared to group B with P-value <0.01 which is statistically significant. Burning and pigmentary changes were side effects associated with KOH solution whereas erythema and scaling were seen with tretinoin. Conclusion 10% KOH has faster onset of action and is more efficacious when compared to 0.05% tretinoin in the childhood MC management. However one must be watchful for side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 44-year-old patient presented with hoarseness of voice and a polypoidal lesion on the left vocal cord. Complete excision was done. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case of molluscum contagiosum of the vocal cords. It should be considered as a differential diagnosis of a vocal cord lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common skin infection affecting children globally, including in Israel, which has a diverse population comprising mainly Jews (73.2%) and Arabs (21.1%). Despite documented disparities in various diseases between these groups, research on differences in dermatological care is scarce. This study aimed to investigate MC as a potential differentiator between Arab and Jewish children. A retrospective analysis of MC cases among children (0–18 years) from 2013 to 2022 was performed at Soroka University Medical Center, a tertiary hospital serving over a million patients. 615 patients participated in our study, with 95.2% Jewish and 4.8% Arab. Both groups showed similar characteristics in lesion quantity (P = 0.535), diameter (P = 0.341), inflammation markers, and lesion location. Additionally, management, treatment response, and outcomes were found to be similar between the two groups. In conclusion, the Arab representation in the study was disproportionately low compared to their population in the area. While Jewish patients may rely more on medical specialists, we believe Arabs may prefer self-management practices, such as the use of traditional medicine, possibly hindering effective physician-led care. Understanding such disparities could improve dermatological care by tailoring approaches to diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses Dermatitis Cruris pustulosa et Atrophicans (DCPA), a chronic folliculitis characterized by symmetrical follicular pustules on both legs, resulting in alopecia, atrophy, and scarring. The condition was first described in Nigeria in 1952 and has received minimal attention in dermatological literature. The etiopathogenesis of DCPA is multifactorial, with studies suggesting a role of lifestyle and occupational factors. Treatment for DCPA is challenging, and further research is needed to better understand the disease. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the Mpox outbreak, declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization due to increased cases in Africa and international spread. It highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating Mpox skin lesions, especially in immunocompromised patients, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing anogenital lesions for accurate diagnosis. The long-term consequences of Mpox skin lesions, including disfiguring scars, are also explored, with dermoscopy and long-term follow-up recommended for effective management. [Extracted from the article]

Background: There is a huge demand–supply gap between the incidence of genital dermatoses (including sexually transmitted infections and non‐venereal genital dermatoses) and physicians trained to manage them. Objectives: To find out the performance of an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based mobile application in the image diagnosis of genital dermatoses, and to compare it with primary care physicians (PCPs) and dermatologists. Methods: Photos of the genital diseases of consecutive patients presenting to the STD and genital diseases clinic were included. The gold standard diagnosis was established by the consensus of two certified dermatologists after examination and one positive investigation. Image diagnoses by the DermaAId application, two PCPs, and two dermatologists were recorded and compared to the gold standard diagnosis and to each other. Results: A total of 257 genital disease images, including 95 (37.0%) anogenital warts, 60 (22.2%) lichen sclerosus, 20 (7.8%) anogenital herpes, 15 (5.8%) tinea cruris, 14 (5.4%) molluscum contagiosum, 9 (3.5%) candidiasis, 8 (3.1%) scabies, 6 (2.3%) squamous cell carcinomas, were included. The top‐1 correct diagnosis rate of the application was 68.9%, compared to the 50.4% of the PCPs and 73.2% of the dermatologists. The application significantly outperformed PCPs with regard to the correlation with the gold standard diagnosis (P < 0.0001), and matched that of the dermatologists. Conclusions: AI‐based image diagnosis platforms can potentially be a low‐cost rapid decision support tool for PCPs, integrated with syndromic management programs and direct‐to‐consumer services, and address healthcare inequities in managing genital dermatoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter published in the Journal of Neurology discusses the impact of myasthenic exacerbation (ME) and myasthenic crisis (MC) on the long-term disease course of myasthenia gravis (MG). The study found that patients who experienced ME or MC had higher baseline impairment and required more intensive immunosuppressant therapy compared to patients without ME. Additionally, patients with ME were more likely to be hospitalized and had a higher incidence of concomitant rheumatoid diseases. The study suggests that ME and MC are associated with negative long-term outcomes in MG. The study also suggests that early intervention and escalation of therapy may be beneficial in preventing ME and improving the long-term clinical status of MG patients, but further research is needed. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Modic change (MC) is defined as abnormalities observed in the intervertebral disc subchondral and adjacent vertebral endplate subchondral bone changes. Most studies on MC were reported in the lumbar spine and associated with lower back pain. However, MC has been rarely reported in the cervical spine, let alone in those who underwent cervical disc replacement (CDR). This study aimed to focus on MC in the cervical spine and reveal clinical and radiological parameters, especially heterotopic ossification (HO), for patients who underwent CDR. Furthermore, we illustrated the association between MC and HO. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent CDA from January 2008 to December 2019. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Radiological evaluations were used to conclude the cervical alignment (CL) and range of motion (ROM) of C2‐7, functional spinal unit angle (FSUA), shell angle (SA), FSU height, and HO. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify the risk factors for HO. The Kaplan–Meier (K‐M) method was used to analyze potential risk factors, and multivariate Cox regression was used to identify independent risk factors. Results: A total of 139 patients were evaluated, with a mean follow‐up time of 46.53 ± 26.60 months. Forty‐nine patients were assigned to the MC group and 90 to the non‐MC group. The incidence of MC was 35.3%, with type 2 being the most common. Clinical outcomes (JOA, NDI, VAS) showed no significant difference between the two groups. The differences in C2‐7 ROM between the two groups were not significant, while the differences in SA ROM and FSUA ROM were significantly higher in the non‐MC than in the MC group (p < 0.05). Besides, FSU height in MC group was significantly lower than that in non‐MC group. Parameters concerning CL, including C2‐7, FSUA, SA, were not significantly different between the two groups. The incidence of HO and high‐grade HO, respectively, in the MC group was 83.7% and 30.6%, while that in the non‐MC group was 53.3% and 2.2%, and such differences were significant (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analyses and Cox regression showed that MC and involved level were significantly associated with HO occurrence (p < 0.05). No implant migration and secondary surgery were observed. Conclusion: MC mainly affected the incidence of HO. Preoperative MC was significantly associated with HO formation after CDR and should be identified as a potential risk factor for HO. Rigorous criteria for MC should be taken into consideration when selecting appropriate candidates for CDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a journal article titled "Common Skin Conditions in Children and Adolescents." It provides information on various skin conditions commonly seen in pediatric patients, including acne, bacterial infections, nonbacterial conditions, and atopic and seborrheic dermatitis. The article emphasizes the importance of timely and effective care for these conditions, as they can have significant psychosocial and financial impacts. The authors provide key practice recommendations, such as avoiding the use of antibiotics as monotherapy for acne and prescribing benzoyl peroxide as a first-line treatment. The document also discusses special considerations for patients with skin of color, pregnant patients, and transgender and gender diverse patients. Additionally, it briefly mentions nonbacterial infections such as tinea infections and warts, as well as scabies infestation. The document provides information on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of these conditions, as well as the epidemiology and risk factors associated with them. It includes guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis, as well as information on other conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, tinea infections, and acne. The resources provide evidence-based recommendations and practical strategies for managing these conditions, taking into account factors such as age, cultural background, and individual patient needs. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Controlling molluscum contagiosum (MC) infections is critical in atopic dermatitis (AD) management. This post hoc analysis assessed the efficacy and safety of berdazimer gel, 10.3% (topical, antiviral, nitric oxide–releasing medication) versus vehicle in MC patients with or without AD. Methods: Three Phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled, parallel‐group trials (B‐SIMPLE[berdazimer sodium in molluscum patients with lesions]1, −2, −4) enrolled patients 6 months and older with 3–70 mollusca. Berdazimer or vehicle was applied once daily to all MC lesions for 12 weeks. Data from three Phase 3 studies were integrated for subgroup efficacy and safety assessments using several weighted meta‐analysis approaches. Patients with concurrent AD or a history of AD/eczema were categorized as AD+ subgroup (AD− when absent). Primary efficacy endpoint: complete lesion clearance at Week 12. Safety endpoints included adverse events (AEs) through Week 24 and local skin reactions through Week 12. Results: Of 1598 enrolled patients, 209 (13.1%) were AD+. Baseline mean lesion counts were greater in AD+ (26.4) than AD− (19.3). Complete clearance rates were higher at Week 12 for berdazimer compared with vehicle in AD+ (n = 209; 35.0% vs. 27.4%; odds ratio [OR], 1.3; 95% CI, 0.7–2.5) and AD− (n = 1389; 29.1% vs. 18.9%; OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.4–2.4) subgroups. AEs in AD+ were application‐site pain (21.6% with berdazimer vs. 11.9% with vehicle), dermatitis (12.8% vs. 2.4%), and erythema (9.6% vs. 7.1%). Conclusions: Berdazimer gel showed favorable efficacy regardless of AD status. Berdazimer‐induced erythema may be indistinguishable from AD symptoms or with inflammatory response upon resolution of molluscum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral infectious disease caused by the Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV). There are four subtypes of MCV (MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3, and MCV-4). The worldwide incidence of MK infection is estimated to be around 2% to 8%, while in the HIV/AIDS population, it is approximately 5% to 18%. To date, there is limited research reporting on the profile of MC patients in Indonesia. This is a descriptive cross-sectional research design. Data were obtained retrospectively and collected from the medical records of patients with molluscum contagiosum who visited the Dermatology and Venereology Polyclinic at Prof. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah General Hospital in Denpasar, Bali, from January 2018 to December 2020. In this study of molluscum contagiosum infection at the Dermatology and Venereology Polyclinic of Sanglah General Hospital in Denpasar, Bali, during the period of January 2018 to December 2020, the majority of participants were aged between 18-44 years (61.1%) and were male (61.1%). Most participants were from Bali (77.8%) and were married (55.6%). Moreover, the majority of participants were sexually active (77.8%) and had a negative HIV status (55.6%). Concerning sexual orientation, most participants identified as heterosexual (83.3%). Regarding the type of therapy received, most participants underwent enucleation (55.5%) and combination therapy (22.2%). Broad public education, especially for parents, regarding molluscum contagiosum should be enhanced to support more effective healthcare efforts encompassing treatment, prevention, and health promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral infection that affects the skin of children. In this study, treatment regimens and demographic information for MC patients across US medical specialties were compared. We discovered an average of 471,383 pediatric MC visits annually using the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey database from 2000 to 2016. Non-Hispanics (82.9%) and Caucasians (91.0%) made up the majority of the visitors. The majority of cases were handled by pediatricians (46.5%), family medicine doctors (10.6%), and dermatologists (36.7%). Compared to pediatricians, dermatologists saw a higher percentage of Caucasian patients (95% vs.84%) and patients with private insurance (83% vs. 73%). Patients were more likely to see family medicine doctors (55.0%) in non-metropolitan areas than pediatricians (26.4%) or dermatologists (16.3%). Dermatologists were less likely than pediatricians (38%) to favor spontaneous resolution (70%). Dermatologists favored terpenoids (20%), imiquimod (12%), and curettage (10%), while pediatricians primarily used terpenoids (12%), steroids (4%), and imiquimod (4%). The majority of MC cases are managed by pediatricians; however, treatment approaches deviate markedly from recommended best practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have reported swimming, atopic dermatitis, and filaggrin (FLG) gene mutations as risk factors for molluscum contagiosum (MC) infection. FLG gene mutations impair skin barrier function. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of FLG mutations on the incidence and clinical features of MC. We used data from 2036 children who participated in the Yamanashi Adjunct Study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study, a prospective, birth cohort study. A questionnaire for caregivers (when children were 4 and 8 years of age) asked about clinical features including previous MC incidence and treatment, number of MC lesions at first visit, and time to resolution. Participants underwent genotyping to detect six FLG mutations that are common in the Japanese population. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between MC incidence and FLG mutations, adjusted for potential confounders. The cumulative incidence of MC at age 8 years was 47.1%. Among participants with a history of MC, 67.6% had undergone curettage. FLG mutation was a significant risk factor for MC incidence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18–2.42). Swimming and atopic dermatitis were also significant risk factors for MC. There was no significant association between FLG mutation and the number of MC lesions at the first visit or the time to resolution of lesions. FLG mutation is a risk factor for MC incidence; however, FLG mutations do not affect the number of MC lesions at presentation or the time to resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 8 (DOCK8) deficiency is an autosomal recessive form of combined immunodeficiency. This rare disorder is characterized by an increased predisposition to allergy, autoimmunity and malignancies. Objectives To analyse clinical, immunological and molecular profiles of patients with DOCK8 deficiency. Methods Clinic records of all patients attending the primary immunodeficiency clinic from 2018 to 2021 were reviewed. Six patients from five families were found to have DOCK8 deficiency. Results Median age at diagnosis was 7.5 years (range 2–13), with a male/female ratio of 5 : 1. Among the six patients, recurrent eczematous skin lesions were the predominant cutaneous manifestation, present in five patients (83%). Warts and molluscum contagiosum were evident in two patients (33%) and one patient (16%), respectively. Two patients had recalcitrant prurigo nodularis lesions and two had epidermodysplasia verruciformis-like lesions. Food allergies and asthma were reported by one patient each. Of the six patients, recurrent sinopulmonary infections were detected in five (83%). Epstein–Barr virus-driven non-Hodgkin lymphoma with liver metastases was the only case of malignancy, in a 4-year-old boy. IgE was elevated in all patients. Lymphopenia and eosinophilia were observed in three patients (50%) and five patients (83.3%), respectively. Genetic analysis showed DOCK8 pathogenic variants in all patients: homozygous deletion mutations in two patients, compound heterozygous deletion mutations in one, and homozygous nonsense mutations in two. A novel pathogenic homozygous missense variant in the DOCK8 gene was identified in one patient. Conclusions DOCK8 deficiency should be considered as a possibility in any patient with early onset eczema, cutaneous viral infections and increased predisposition to allergy, autoimmunity and malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genital warts are the most frequent sexually transmitted disease. Their clinical diagnosis is not always easy, and invasive skin biopsies for histological examination should be performed in these cases. The aim of the study was to investigate the use of non-invasive imaging techniques for the diagnosis of genital warts and their imitators. We retrospectively evaluated dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), and line-filed confocal microscopy (LC-OCT) images of nine patients with 19 warts of the mucous membranes and five patients with lesions that clinically mimic genital warts, including 12 molluscum contagiosum, 1 Fordyce's spot and one case of multiple acquired lymphangiomas. Most genital warts (15; 79%) showed dilated vessels surrounded by a whitish halo at dermoscopy. RCM and the new device LC-OCT could identify near histologic features such as the presence of hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, papillomatosis and enlarged vessels in all genital warts. However, the identification of koilocytes, which are the hallmark for the diagnosis of warts, was still difficult using both techniques. Non-invasive imaging techniques could also offer clues for the correct diagnosis of the imitators. This study confirmed the usefulness of dermoscopy in recognizing a precise pattern in warts and showed the potential use of RCM and LC-OCT to add additional findings to the clinical and dermoscopic examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the association between MC and psoriasis. Methods: In a nationwide, population-based, matched cohort study in Sweden from 2007 to 2021, we identified 8404 patients with biopsy-verified MC (diagnosed in 2007– 2017), 37,033 matched reference individuals, and 8381 siblings without MC. Information on MC was obtained through the ESPRESSO cohort (a Swedish histopathology database with nationwide coverage). Using Cox regression, we calculated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for psoriasis up until 2021. Results: During a median follow-up of 9.2 years (interquartile range = 6.7– 11.7), 179 MC patients and 440 reference individuals were diagnosed with psoriasis (241.1 vs 131.8 events per 100,000 person-years), corresponding to one extra case of psoriasis in 91 patients with MC over 10 years. After adjustment for the matching variables (birth year, sex, county of residence, and calendar period) and level of education, we computed an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 1.82 (95% CI = 1.53– 2.17). Stratified by sex, estimates were similar and when examining the aHR across different lengths of follow-up, we found significantly elevated estimates up to 10 years after MC diagnosis. Compared to MC-free siblings, the aHR was 1.85 (95% CI = 1.36– 2.51). Conclusion: Patients with MC are at an almost doubled risk of psoriasis compared to the general population. Clinicians need to consider psoriasis in MC patients with skin lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]