Answer

Bumps

Molluscum contagiosum

(Poxvirus)

A 24 year old HIV positive male visits the family practice clinic complaining of "bumps" on his groin and genitalia area. On physical exam, the lesions are discrete pearly, firm papules. The diameter of the lesions range from 2 to 6 mm (rarely giant nodules up to 3 cm occur). They are centrally umbilicated with erythematous base.

Laboratory: Virus particles cannot be cultured.

Discussion: Diagnosis is made by clinical presentation. Lesions can be pruritic or tender. The lesion has an umbilicated center. Beneath the center is a white curd-like core. The lesions can be found anywhere but there is a predilection for face, trunk and extremities in children and groin and genitalia in adults.