Molluscum Contagiosum Virus

The molluscum contagiosum (MC) virus (MCV) is a member of the Poxviridae family, the sole member of the Molluscipoxvirus genus. MCV particles have a typical poxviral morphology. The virions are enveloped, pleomorphic, but generally ovoid to brickshaped, with a dumbbell-shaped central core and lateral bodies similar to those in orthopoxvirus virions. MCV has a large (~190 kb), linear double-stranded DNA genome, and the core protects the genetic material. MCV was reported 182 genes in the genome, with 154 that were highly likely to be coding genes. 105 hypothetical proteins have homologues to smallpox virus and other poxviruses. The remaining open reading frames are unique to MCV and might be involved in the suppression of the host response to infection, nucleotide biosynthesis, and cell proliferation. There are four known subtypes of MCV (MCV-1, -2, -3, and -4), identifiable by restriction fragment length polymorphisms of their genomes. MCV-1 is the most prevalent in healthy humans, while MCV-2 is more common in HIV-infected patients.

Fig.1 Electron microscopy of MCV. (Shisler, 2015)

Pathogenesis

MCV probably enters the epidermis through micro lesions. First, just the viral cores are found in the basal layer of the epidermis. The typical MCV lesion contains conglomerates of hyperplastic epithelial cells organized in follicles and lobes, which all develop into a central indentation toward the surface of the skin in a process similar to holocrine secretion. The central indentation is filled with cellular debris and is rich in elementary viral particles in a waxy plug-like structure. This plug becomes mobilized and spreads the infection to other areas of surrounding skin or contaminates objects. The cytoplasm of MCV-producing cells shows keratinization. MCV is notable for its ability to evade immune detection as it replicates within epidermal keratinocytes. It forms enclosed molluscum bodies that effectively evade dermal immune detection.

Symtom

Usually, the only symptom of MC is several small, firm, raised papules (spots) on the skin.
Papules are soft and smooth and may have a small dent in the center.
Often are painless, but can get itchy, sore, red, and/or swollen.
Papules are small, typically under about 1/4 inch (smaller than 6 millimeters) in diameter.
The lesions may show up alone or in groups and can appear on any part of the body except on the palms of hands or soles of your feet.

Epidemiology

Replication is limited to the human epidermis.
Most childhood cases of MC occur on the face and trunk and resolve within 3 months. Of note, ocular and oral MC in immunocompetent children has also been reported. In contrast, when MCV infections are sexually transmitted in young adults, the MC lesions initially are present in the groin area.
MCV infection rates and the risk of contracting MCV are higher in immunocompromised versus healthy patients. People with congenital immune-suppressive conditions are also at increased risk for MCV infection.
MCV can be transmitted via direct skin-to-skin or mucous membrane contact, or by fomites. MCV is also sexually transmitted.

Prevention and Treatment

MC lesions are generally self-limiting and harmless, with an average of 6 months to 5 years for lesions to disappear without any specific treatment. Some drugs including liquids, gels, or creams are applied directly to the skin. MC can usually be frozen with liquid nitrogen. They can also be removed by using a cream or having a clinician scrape off the bumps using a tool.

To help prevent the spread of the virus:

Wash hands well and often with soap and water.
Do not share towels or clothing.
Do not touch or scratch bumps or blisters on their skin or other people's skin.
Adults should practice safe sex or abstinence.

Anti-MCV Products and Services

As a recombinant monoclonal and polyclonal antibody production company, Creative Biolabs strives to offer you the best possible custom antibodies of the highest quality. Focus on the virology area, we can provide customized anti-MCV antibodies. It is noted that our MCV antibody products are only for various research, not for clinical applications. For further information and to discuss your project needs, please feel free to contact us.

Reference

Shisler, J.L. Immune evasion strategies of molluscum contagiosum virus. Adv Virus Res. 2015, 92: 201-252.

All products and services are intended for Research Use Only, and NOT to be used in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.