A 25-year-old HIV-positive man (CD4 count 80/µL) presents with multiple, large (>1 cm), umbilicated flesh-coloured papules on the face, neck, and genitalia. He has over 50 lesions. The diagnosis is disseminated molluscum contagiosum. The virus responsible belongs to:

• A Herpesviridae family
• B Papillomaviridae family
• C Polyomaviridae family
• D Poxviridae family ✓

Explanation

Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is a double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the Poxviridae family, genus Molluscipoxvirus. It is the largest virus infecting humans that has not been cultured in vitro. Types MCV-1 (most common) and MCV-2 (more common in genital/adult disease and immunocompromised) are known. In HIV patients with low CD4 counts (<200), molluscum becomes widespread and atypically large (giant molluscum). Immune reconstitution with HAART leads to spontaneous resolution. Papillomaviruses cause warts; herpesviruses cause herpes simplex/zoster.

Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.