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DISEASES AND INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN: MOLLUSCUM CONTAGIOUSUM AND PITYRIASIS ROSEA
Molluscum contagiousum
Molluscum contagiousum is a type of wart infection which spreads very rapidly. It often appears as pearly blisters. Molluscum contagiousum, as the name suggests, is highly contagious. It spreads rapidly to many parts of the body and to other children. Although the lesions eventually disappear, they can spread to many areas in the meantime. If molluscum contagiousum does not show signs of disappearing within a few months or shows signs of spreading, it is best to have the lesions removed by either liquid nitrogen or a special preparation called Cantharadin. Over-the-counter wart paints are ineffective for this infection.
Pityriasis rosea
This condition produces a sudden, dramatic rash over most of the body, but usually spares the face. Although there are epidemics of pityriasis rosea, it is not highly contagious within family units or schools.
Pityriasis rosea is probably caused by a virus, although this is yet to be proved, and epidemics tend to occur during autumn and spring. The illness begins with a sore throat or cold and about ten days later the rash begins. A single lesion appears first, followed five or so days later by a scaly, circular rash all over the body. Curiously, this rash is rarely itchy, and does not usually recur.
Your local doctor will probably be able to diagnose pityriasis rosea simply by looking at the rash. It can, however, be confused with ringworm, so if there is any doubt a skin scraping must be examined under a microscope. No treatment is usually necessary, as the rash disappears of its own accord. If it is itchy your doctor may prescribe a topical cortisone cream.
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GENERAL HEALTH
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