Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What should be considered if Molluscum contagiosum is present in the genital area of a child?

1. It is an indicator of a sexually transmitted disease

2. It may suggest child sexual abuse

3. It is a common benign condition

4. It is caused by a bacterial infection

The correct answer is: It may suggest child sexual abuse

When considering the presence of Molluscum contagiosum in the genital area of a child, the assertion that it may suggest child sexual abuse holds particular significance. Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection characterized by pearly, flesh-colored bumps that can appear on various areas of the body, including the genital region. In children, while the virus is commonly spread through direct skin-to-skin contact and can sometimes be transmitted through contaminated objects, the occurrence of lesions specifically in the genital area raises concerns that warrant further investigation into potential non-accidental trauma. This context is critical because, although Molluscum contagiosum is often benign and self-limiting, the localization of lesions in areas typically associated with sexual activity in an adult population could signal the need for a thorough assessment to rule out possible abuse. While it is important to recognize that not all cases of genital Molluscum contagiosum in children indicate sexual abuse, a careful and sensitive evaluation is necessitated in such cases to ensure the child's safety and well-being. In contrast, while it is true that Molluscum contagiosum is a common and benign condition, this fact alone does not address the implications when lesions are present in the genital area of a child. The