A 6-month-old infant presents with multiple tiny, white, firm papules on the face and gingiva. Some lesions have a central yellow depression. The lesions are asymptomatic. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A Milia
• B Molluscum contagiosum
• C Epstein pearls
• D Eruptive vellus hair cysts ✓

Explanation

Eruptive vellus hair cysts present as multiple flesh-colored to whitish papules on the face, chest, and extremities in children and young adults. Some show a central depression. Milia are solitary or few, not multiple scattered lesions. Epstein pearls occur on the midline palate or gingiva in newborns. Molluscum contagiosum shows central umbilication and is caused by poxvirus.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.