Molluscum contagiosum is caused by which of the following: March 2013
**Core Concept**
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by a specific type of poxvirus. The virus is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, contaminated objects, or autoinoculation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is a member of the Poxviridae family, specifically the Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). MCV infects keratinocytes, leading to the formation of characteristic skin lesions. The virus replicates within the cytoplasm of infected cells, producing characteristic molluscum bodies, which are pathognomonic for the disease.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because it is not a member of the Poxviridae family.
**Option B:** Incorrect because it is not the causative agent of molluscum contagiosum.
**Option C:** Incorrect because it is not a type of poxvirus.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Molluscum contagiosum lesions are typically characterized by a central depression (umbilication) and are often accompanied by perilesional inflammation. Treatment options include topical imiquimod, cantharidin, or surgical excision, but spontaneous resolution is common.
**Correct Answer: D. Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV)**