Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Molluscum contagiosum classification
Introduction
Overview
Overview
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.
Classification
Classification
- 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.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mahshid Mir, M.D. [2]