OpenHealth Q&A

Differentiating Between Molluscum and Eczema

A 25-year-old male with a medical history of eczema presents with some skin concerns. He has not undergone any surgical procedures, and there are no significant findings in his family history. Currently, he is a medical student who has not engaged in sexual activity for the past four months. Over his lifetime, he has had five partners, the most recent of whom he maintained a monogamous relationship with for five years; this partner has no history of sexually transmitted infections. His social habits include occasional alcohol consumption, and he neither uses tobacco nor illicit substances. He has seasonal allergies and a sensitivity to amoxicillin. His daily medication includes Zyrtec. Recently, two days ago, he spent two hours in the sun, leading to a new skin condition. Upon waking this morning, he noticed several red, raised papules on his arm, which are neither itchy nor painful. All of these bumps appeared simultaneously. Interestingly, he experienced a similar incident about three weeks ago, which involved just two bumps following sun exposure. He reports feeling completely healthy overall and has been actively attending hospital and clinic rotations for the previous eight months, ensuring hygiene by washing his hands after every patient examination. Notably, while he did rotations in pediatrics last February, he did not notice any similar bumps during that time. For the last two weeks, he has been sleeping in the hospital call room, using the provided blankets and bedding. Approximately one year ago, he tested negative for both HIV types 1 and 2 as well as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. He has received the quadrivalent HPV vaccine. At this point, he suspects his skin condition to be molluscum contagiosum, yet he is puzzled about how he might have contracted it. He is confident that his former partner of five years did not have a history of molluscum, and since their last sexual encounter occurred four months prior, he has not been with anyone else.

Answers (1)

6/18/2025, 2:10:42 AM

OpenHealth AI

Main Points: The red, raised papules on your arm likely require further evaluation to differentiate between molluscum contagiosum and a flare-up of eczema or another skin condition. It's important to monitor your symptoms and care for your skin properly.

Explanation: The papules you’re experiencing could be a result of sun exposure, which can sometimes trigger skin reactions in individuals with eczema. Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection characterized by small, raised, painless bumps, often with a central dimple. However, since you've had a history of eczema and recent sun exposure, it’s also possible that these bumps are related to an eczema flare or another type of irritation. Your report of similar previous incidents adds to the likelihood of a non-infectious cause, especially if these bumps are not typically associated with pain or itching.

Next Steps:

1. Skin Care: Gently cleanse the affected area with mild soap and avoid further sun exposure. Consider applying a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and less prone to irritation.
2. Monitor Symptoms: Pay close attention to the bumps over the next few days. Note any changes in their size, color, or sensation (like itching or pain), and whether new bumps appear.
3. Avoid Scratching: Avoid picking or scratching the bumps as this could lead to irritation or infection.
4. Consider Topical Treatments: If the papules start to itch or show signs of eczema flare, you might benefit from a mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream that can reduce inflammation.
5. Documentation: Keep a record of your symptoms and any potential triggers, such as sun exposure or other activities, to discuss if the condition persists.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen in a week, consider seeking further evaluation for more precise diagnosis and management options. Always prioritize your skin health and comfort.