Evaluation of daylight methylene blue photodynamic therapy in multiple recurrent molluscum contagiosum

Abstract

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral infection caused by DNA Poxvirus. This condition is most commonly encountered in pediatric, sexually active adults and immunocompromised patients, presenting with distinctive pearlescent white papules with a central umbilication. Infection is transmitted either through direct contact with infected skin, via fomites or by autoinoculation.

A large number of treatments exist for treatment of MC which include destructive therapies like curettage, pricking with a sterile needle, cryotherapy, electrodesiccation, photodynamic therapy and lasers. Other topical medications include tretinoin, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, potassium hydroxide and imiquimod. However, no therapy is universally effective and most of these treatment modalities are not well tolerated by children as they can be painful and some may increase the chances of permanent scarring.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a modern, noninvasive treatment for skin disorders. it requires only three ingredients ; a photosensitizer, a light source, and oxygen. The therapeutic effect is achieved by light activation of a photosensitizing agent, and in the presence of oxygen, reactive oxygen intermediates are formed. These intermediates irreversibly oxidize essential cellular components, causing apoptosis and necrosis. The advantages of PDT are numerous; it is a safe, Non-invasive technique which yields effective therapeutic results.