Cantharidin: A well-tolerated and effective therapy for Molluscum contagiosum in children

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a frequent viral infection in paediatric population. Destructive therapies for MC are poorly tolerated in children, so in this study, we have assessed the efficacy and tolerability of a non-painful treatment intervention with topical cantharidin. A prospective case series was conducted in which 30 pediatric patients were recruited. Diagnosis of MC was made by dermatologist. Cantharidin collodion 0.2% was applied by dermatologist in an office setting, with a follow-up at 2 and 4 wk. Patients were evaluated about their experience with cantharidin and other treatments for MC (if they had been treated before). Pain experienced with cantharidin technique was measured using a visual analog scale called "Faces Pain Rating Scale." The results of this prospective study have demonstrated that cantharidin could be considered a front line therapy for MC in children.