Molluscum contagiosum classification

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mahshid Mir, M.D. [2]

Molluscum contagiosum may be classified according to virus subtypes, based on the restriction endonuclease analysis into 4 different subtypes. Type 1 is the most commonly seen subtype.

• Molluscum contagiosum may be classified according to restriction endonuclease analysis into 4 different subtypes:^[1]
  • MCV-1: Highest prevalence
  • MCV-2: Often seen in adults and is sexually transmitted.
  • MCV-3
  • MCV-4

• Molluscum contagiosum may also be classified based on the presentation of the lesions to:
  • Molluscum dermatitis: Eczematous patches or plaques surrounding molluscum contagiosum lesions.
  • Inflamed molluscum contagiosum: Erythema and swelling of individual lesions, is a clinical finding that may portend a higher likelihood of impending clinical improvement.