Monkeypox: a dermatologist perspective.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, endemic to Western and Central Africa.
• MPX generally has lower morbidity and mortality rates compared to other Orthopox virus diseases like smallpox.
• A significant multi-country outbreak of MPX is currently occurring in non-endemic countries, exhibiting unique clinical and epidemiological features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the evolving clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the current Monkeypox outbreak.
• To emphasize the importance of dermatologists in the differential diagnosis of MPX due to its constant skin involvement.
• To inform healthcare professionals about the disease's presentation and management, particularly in the context of the global outbreak.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical and epidemiological data from the current multi-country Monkeypox outbreak.
• Comparison of current outbreak characteristics with those observed in endemic areas.
• Analysis of dermatological manifestations and their differential diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The current MPX epidemic predominantly affects men who have sex with men (MSM).
• Sexual transmission appears to be a frequent route of infection in the current outbreak.
• MPX presents with a wide range of skin manifestations that evolve through different stages, necessitating differentiation from common dermatological conditions.

Conclusions:

• The current Monkeypox outbreak presents distinct epidemiological and clinical features compared to endemic settings.
• Dermatologists are crucial for accurate and timely diagnosis of MPX, requiring awareness of its varied skin presentations.
• Understanding the specific characteristics of the current MPX epidemic is essential for effective public health response and patient management.