Molluscum Contagiosum Treated with Dilute Povidone-Iodine: A Series of Cases.

Objective

To report our experience using a broad spectrum antimicrobial, povidone-iodine, as a novel at-home prescription treatment for molluscum contagiosum. Design/

Setting

A systematic review of cases presenting to one of the author's private dermatology clinics from January to July of 2015 identified 12 patients with molluscum contagiosum seeking treatment.

Participants

The population was pediatric, with six males and six female patients included (age range 2-17 years, mean age 6 years). Measurements: Patients were evaluated at baseline and returned to the office for evaluation at four-week intervals until resolution or failure to show for appointments, with number and location of lesions being recorded at each visit. Adverse effects were evaluated at each visit.

Results

All 12/12 (100%) patients demonstrated complete or partial resolution. There were a total of 115 lesions treated in the case series, and 103/115 (90%) resolved. Complete resolution occurred in 8/12 (67%) patients. Of the 8/12 with complete resolution, 4/8 (50%) patients showed complete resolution at the four-week follow-up visit and 4/8 (50%) showed complete resolution at the eight-week follow-up. Of the 4/12 (33%) patients who failed to demonstrate complete resolution, 4/4 (100%) showed partial resolution.

Conclusion

This case series demonstrates considerable success for treatment of molluscum contagiosum with a dilute povidone-iodine preparation. The treatment was well-tolerated, with minimal side effects.