Gianotti-Crosti syndrome-like reaction to molluscum contagiosum-Clinical characteristics and response to treatment

Abstract

Background and objectives: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral infection. Hypersensitivity reactions reminiscent of Gianotti-Crosti syndrome, termed Gianotti-Crosti syndrome-like reaction (GCLR), have been reported in a subset of patients. We report a series of patients with GCLR, better delineating its clinical presentation and course.

Patients and methods: Retrospective chart review of all children presenting with GCLR at our Pediatric Skin Center between 2015 and 2020.

Results: 26 children (14 boys) with a median age of 6.5 (3-11.3) years were included. GCLR involved the extensor surfaces of the extremities in all patients. More widespread eruptions also affected the trunk and face in 7 (27 %) and 6 (23 %) children respectively. Involvement of the skin overlying the Achilles tendons was a new finding in 4 (15 %) children. Itch was the predominant symptom in 20 (77 %) patients. The rash responded to topical and/or systemic corticosteroids and resolved within four weeks. GCLR was followed by clearance of MC in all patients within 9 (4-24) weeks.

Conclusions: GCLR is a characteristic acute, wide-spread, pruritic papular eruption, which often leads to emergency consultations and anxiety in affected patients. GCLR responds well to corticosteroid treatment, has a benign course, and heralds the healing of MC.

Keywords: Gianotti-Crosti syndrome-like reaction; molluscum contagiosum.