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.