If molluscum contagiosum lesions are bothersome, which procedure is mentioned to hasten resolution?

• A. Incision and curettage to scrape out the viral contents
• B. Topical steroids
• C. Laser therapy only
• D. Observation and reassurance

Answer: (A)

When molluscum contagiosum lesions are bothersome, removing the lesion and its viral core directly speeds up resolution. Incision and curettage makes a small cut and scrapes out the central plug that contains the virus, reducing the viral load in that area and triggering healing. This mechanical removal typically leads to quicker clearance than waiting for natural resolution. Topical steroids don’t eliminate the virus and can even dampen local immunity, so they don’t hasten healing. Laser therapy may help in some cases but isn’t universally faster as a sole approach and can require multiple sessions. Observation and reassurance relies on natural resolution, which can take many months. So, physically removing the viral contents via incision and curettage is the most effective way to hasten resolution when the lesions are bothersome.