Description

Mollusks are invertebrate animals. The body of many mollusks is covered with a shell or shell. There are more than a million species of mollusks in the world, which are usually classified into several classes. The most well-known classes are gastropods, bivalves and cephalopods.

Kinds

Gastropoda molluscs (Gastropoda). Representatives of this class have a pair of eyes, a movable leg attached directly to the body (hence the name); the body of these mollusks is protected by a shell. Gastropods are: abalone, trumpeter, periwinkle, grape snail, guidac. The largest gastropod mollusc is guidac: its weight reaches 1.5 kg, and its body size is three times the size of a 20-cm shell.

Bivalves (Bivalvia). The body of these animals is covered with a strong shell, consisting of two wings. Muscular outgrowth - leg on the abdominal part of the body bivalves allows them to cling tightly to rocks or the bottoms of ships. Bivalves include oysters, mussels and scallops.

The cephalopods (Cephalopoda) are the largest of all molluscs. Their body either does not have a shell (like an octopus), or the shell is preserved in the form of a subcutaneous calcareous plate (like cuttlefish). Cephalopods live in the depths of the seas and oceans.

This species is able to camouflage itself under the environment. Cephalopods include: octopus, squid and cuttlefish. giant squid can reach 15 m in length

Spreading

Bivalve mollusks live in salt and fresh water bodies of any corner of the planet.

Gastropods are inhabitants of land and water bodies.

Cephalopods live exclusively in the seas and oceans. Squids are independent of climatic conditions and are found even in the northern seas and waters of the Arctic; octopuses and cuttlefish prefer the depths of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

Cooking

Oysters and scallops can be eaten raw in their own shells with a splash of lemon juice. There is even a special cutlery for this.

Guidac and grape snail are cooked in their own shells. Octopuses, cuttlefish and squid are suitable for many dishes and even for canning. Their fillets can be used in salads. The contents of the cuttlefish ink glands are also used, like black risotto sauce.

Useful properties of scallop

The beneficial properties of scallops are due to the huge amount of useful components in its composition that are easily absorbed by the human body.

The low calorie content of scallops allows them to be classified as dietary products. Therefore, many nutritionists recommend eating the meat of this mollusk for obesity.

We list the main useful properties of scallop:

  • the meat of this mollusk improves the composition of blood plasma and reduces the concentration of cholesterol in the blood;
  • regular consumption of shellfish has a beneficial effect on the endocrine and nervous systems, and also improves metabolism;
  • consumption of scallop meat increases general tone organism;
  • scallop pulp contains calcium that is easily digestible and non-toxic for the body, so it is very useful to include the mollusk in the menu for children with a lack of calcium.
  • the pulp of the mollusk increases male potency.

Rules for the purchase, storage and use of scallops

Fresh clam meat should be pinkish-cream or greyish in color. A fresh scallop should smell like the sea.

It is believed that larger scallops are older and less enriched with valuable components.

If these delicacies are to be eaten raw, they must be alive. The shells of live mollusks should close when touched with a finger.

Frozen scallops should be thawed at room temperature, avoiding hot water and microwave ovens. Frozen shellfish can be stored for no more than three months. Fresh scallops can be stored in the refrigerator in a container with ice for no more than three days.

Harm of scallops

You can not abuse shellfish to people with an excess of calcium, iodine or phosphorus in the body.

Scallops are very delicate to storage conditions and can easily deteriorate; if a spoiled product is used, poisoning and disruption of the digestive system are possible.

Contraindications to the use of sea scallops

Scallops should not be consumed with hyperthyroidism, as they contain a significant amount of iodine. You should not try this delicacy with individual intolerance to seafood, as well as during lactation (due to possible allergic reactions).

The use of sea scallops

Scallop meat is used in cooking for preparing various seafood dishes.

Scallops improve the work of the endocrine and nervous systems, improve mood, restore vitality and strength.

Due to the high protein content, shellfish are used in dietetics. They are low in calories, so they deliver a lot of useful substances to the body without creating fat deposits. Regular consumption of shellfish in food makes the figure slimmer and sleeker, contributes to better functioning of the body as a whole.

Shells are used as decorations, they are used to make souvenirs. Vacationers on the coast collect shells in memory of the holiday.

Scallops are advised to eat for people with rheumatism, gout, problems with the musculoskeletal system, bone strength.

Compound

All seafood is an invaluable source of protein, iodine, vitamins and phosphorus.

Interesting fact

An encounter at depth with a huge cephalopod - the giant cuttlefish nautilus - is to this day the most terrible underwater nightmare, often described in books and disaster films.

Calorie content of shellfish

Calorie content of octopus - 109.8 kcal, squid - 82 kcal, cuttlefish - 61 kcal, mussels - 77 kcal, oysters - 88 kcal; scallop - 89 kcal.

Introduction
Although there are more than three thousand different types of bivalve mollusks in nature, only three of them are eaten by humans. These include mussels, oysters and scallops. If you cook this seafood correctly (of course, it must be fresh), then it will give you not only an unforgettable taste sensation, but also have a lot of useful properties for your body. And all this thanks to chemical composition.
Compound
When considering molecular level meat of these marine life researchers found in it the presence of:
  • proteins (from 9% to 16%);
  • saturated fatty acids (about 0.4%);
  • cholesterol (about 40%);
  • ash substances (about 1.6%);
  • vitamins: A (A (RE) - about 1.6%, group B (B1 (thiamine - about 0.1%), B2 (riboflavin - about 0.14%)), C (about 1%), E (E (TE) - about 0.9%), PP (about 1.6%), PP (Niacin equivalent - about 3.7%);
  • minerals: iron (about 0.032%), phosphorus (about 0.21%), potassium (about 0.31%), sodium (about 0.29%), magnesium (about 0.03%), calcium (about 0 .05%).

Beneficial features
A remarkable property of the meat of these marine inhabitants is that in terms of the amount of protein it surpasses not only fish, but also meat. At the same time, the calorie content of this product is only 77 kcal, which allows it to be included in your diet for those people who are afraid to get better.
Application for diseases
Due to their unique composition, bivalves help:

  • in the treatment of arthritis;
  • strengthen the immune system;
  • cleanse the body of toxins and radionuclides;
  • improve metabolic processes in the body;
  • restore normal blood composition;
  • give skin, hair and nails a healthy look;
  • prevent the appearance and development of various oncologies in the body;
  • improve the functioning of the thyroid gland;
  • increase libido.

Harm
However, their use can cause not only benefits, but also harm to the body. This is due to the fact that under natural conditions, these marine animals pump through a very large amount of water, in which a wide variety of microorganisms are present. After a long time, saxitoxin accumulates in the composition of the mollusk, which belongs to the category of nerve poisons. Therefore, when eating these seafood in large quantities, serious harm to the body can be caused.
Application in cooking
Each of edible species bivalve molluscs are eaten in different ways. For example, mussels are eaten after heat treatment along with the entrails.
There are several ways to cook mussels:

  • frying in butter;
  • roasting with the addition of herbs and garlic;
  • steaming or using white wine.

Cooking scallops
But scallops can be eaten both raw and after heat treatment. At the same time, the insides of the mollusk are not eaten. It can be fried or boiled, but always in salted water so that the meat does not lose its beneficial properties.
cooking oysters
Everyone knows about oysters. These bivalves are eaten exclusively raw in Belgium or France. Before that, they are poured with lemon juice, and then they absorb the entire contents of the clam shell in one gulp. If you cannot overcome yourself to eat the clam raw, then you can bake it in the oven. These mollusks should be served sprinkled with grated cheese, with rye bread. Bon appetit to all and stay healthy!

Interaction with humans Image of molluscs in · culture

For thousands of years, shellfish have been eaten by humans. In addition, shellfish served as a source of various valuable materials, such as pearls, mother-of-pearl, purple, tkhelet and fine linen. In some cultures, clam shells served as currency. The bizarre shapes and gigantic size of some mollusks have given rise to myths about sea ​​monsters such as the kraken. Mollusks of some species are poisonous and can be dangerous to humans. There are also agricultural pests among mollusks, for example, giant Achatina.

Usage

Wool dyed with tkhelet pigment (pigment source - mollusk Murex trunculus)

In the food industry

Mollusks, especially bivalves, such as mussels and oysters, have served as human food since ancient times. Other shellfish commonly eaten include octopus, squid, cuttlefish and snails. In 2010, 14.2 million tons of shellfish were grown in aquaculture farms, which is 23.6% of the total mass of shellfish used for food. Some countries regulate the import of shellfish and other seafood, mainly to minimize the risk of poisoning by the toxins that accumulate in these organisms.

In terms of the volume of fishing, gastropod mollusks are inferior to bivalves. They eat such marine gastropods as the sea saucer ( Patella), abalone ( haliotis), trumpeters ( Buccinum) (fishing is carried out in Russia in the Far East, canned food is made from them), littorins ( Littorina), sea hares ( Aplysia). Of the land snails in some countries, snails of the genera are eaten. Achatina, helix, slugs. In some European countries grape snails ( Helix pomatia) are bred in special farms.

Today, the extraction of bivalves is inferior to their artificial breeding in mariculture. Thus, mussels and oysters are grown on special farms. Especially great success such farms reached in the USA, Japan, France, Spain, Italy. In Russia, such farms are located on the shores of the Black, White, Barents and Japan Seas. In addition, mariculture of sea pearl mussel is developed in Japan ( Pinctada). Strombus giant is a valuable commercial mollusk for the local population of the Caribbean, including Cuba.

Cephalopods are game animals; meat of cuttlefish, squid and octopus is used for food. Cuttlefish and some octopuses are harvested for the ink liquid used to make natural ink and ink.

In the production of luxury goods and jewelry

There is another article: pearls and purple

Most mollusks that have shells form pearls, but only pearls coated with a layer of mother-of-pearl have commercial value. They are created only by bivalves and some gastropods. Among natural pearls, bivalve pearls are the most valuable. Pinctada margaritifera And Pinctada mertensi living in the tropical and subtropical parts of the Pacific Ocean. Commercial pearl farming involves the controlled incorporation of solid particles into oysters and the subsequent collection of pearls. The ground shells of other mollusks often serve as the material for the introduced particles. The commercial use of this material has pushed some freshwater bivalve species in the southeastern United States to the brink of extinction. The commercial cultivation of pearls has given rise to intensive research into mollusk diseases, which is necessary to ensure the health of the cultured species.

Byzantine emperor Justinian I dressed in purple and pearls

Mother-of-pearl mined from shells is used to make various items, such as buttons, and in addition to inlays.

In addition to pearls, shellfish are the source of some other luxury items. So, purple is extracted from the hypobranchial glands of some needles. According to the historian of the 4th century BC Theopompus, purple was worth its weight in silver. The abundance of needlefish shells found in Crete supports the assumption that the Minoan civilization was a pioneer in the use of purple as early as the 20th and 18th centuries BC, long before Tyre, with which the material is often associated. tkhelet (Hebrew) - a dye of animal origin, used in antiquity to dye fabric blue, cyan or purple-blue. Tkhelet is important to some Judaic rites as an obligatory attribute of items such as tzitzit (vision brushes) and the clothes of the high priest. Despite the fact that the method of obtaining tkhelet was lost in the 6th century AD, e., by now, a consensus has practically formed in the scientific world, according to which the source of tkhelet was also a representative of the family of needlefish - chopped off murex ( Hexaplex trunculus). fine linen - an expensive fabric, the material for the manufacture of which is byssus. It is a protein material secreted by some types of bivalve molluscs (most famously pinna nobilis) for attachment to the seabed. Procopius of Caesarea, describing the Persian wars of the middle of the VI century AD. e., argued that only members of the ruling classes were allowed to wear fine linen chlamys.

Mollusk shells (or their individual fragments) were used in some cultures as currency. The value of the shells was not fixed, but depended on the number of shells on the market. Therefore, they were subject to unforeseen surges in inflation associated with the discovery of a "gold mine" or improved methods of transportation. In some cultures, shell jewelry served as signs of social status.

as pets

At home, they often contain land giant Achatina and grape snails. In the aquarium hobby, snails, melania, coils and pond snails are common. In large aquariums, you can find octopuses, squids and cuttlefish.

In the research field

Cone toxins are highly specific in their effect. The relatively small size of their molecules facilitates their laboratory synthesis. These two qualities make cone toxins an object of research in the field of neuroscience. Shellfish are also of great interest for drug development. Mollusks pay special attention to themselves, in digestive tract inhabited by symbiotic bacteria. Perhaps the substances secreted by these bacteria will find their use as antibiotics or neurological agents.

Other uses

The mineralized shell of mollusks is well preserved in fossil form. Therefore, in paleontology, fossil mollusks serve as "geological clocks" that allow stratigraphic dating of rock layers with great accuracy. Mollusk shells have been used since ancient times as a material for the manufacture of various tools: fish hooks, chisels, scrapers, hoe attachments. The shells themselves were used as vessels, and besides this, musical instruments (conch) and jewelry.

The shells of predominantly gastropods, as well as bivalve and cephalopod mollusks, are the objects of a type of collection that is widespread in the world. It originated in the days of Antiquity, and reached its greatest popularity in the era of the Great Geographical Discoveries. In the middle of the 19th century, in the interior of Victorian houses, there was always a glass cabinet, where, along with fossils and minerals, shells of sea mollusks were exhibited. This type of collecting remains popular today.

Pests

200px( reticulated slug Deroceras reticulatum)

Some types of mollusks (mainly snails) are pests of agricultural crops. Such a species, getting into a new habitat, is able to unbalance the local ecosystem. An example is the giant Achatina ( Achatina fulica) is a plant pest. It has been introduced to many areas of Asia, as well as to many islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In the 1990s, this species reached the West Indies. An attempt to fight it by introducing a predatory snail Euglandina rosea only worsened the situation: this predator ignores Achatina and instead exterminates local species of snails.

Grape snail harms grapes, and slugs harm garden crops. Field Slug ( Agriolimax agrestis) harms winter crops, potatoes, tobacco, clover, garden plants, and net slug ( Deroceras reticulatum) causes damage to tomato and cabbage crops. In the southern regions, slugs of the genus Parmacella.

New Zealand freshwater snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum was first recorded in North America in the mid-1980s - first in the western, and then in the eastern states of the United States. Despite the fact that the length of one snail is on average about 5 mm, its exceptional fecundity leads to a concentration of up to half a million individuals per square meter, which leads to the rapid extinction of local insects and mollusks, as well as fish associated with them in the food chain.

Some mollusks are enemies of commercial mollusks, for example, the aforementioned predatory snails. Crepidula fornicata in some cases they appear on oyster banks (that is, the shallows of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean) and in such quantities that the oysters themselves become invisible; as a result, the oysters die.

Shipworms from the class of bivalves settle in wood submerged in water, including in the underwater parts of wooden boats and ships, as well as in stationary hydraulic structures. In the course of its life activity (see the nutrition section above), the shipworm grinds numerous passages in the wood, which contributes to its rapid destruction. The annual damage caused by shipworms is in the millions.

Small bivalve Dreissena polymorpha is attached to a solid substrate by the byssus and forms significant accumulations. Often, she settles in pipes and conduits, clogging them.

Shellfish and human health

Many mollusks produce or accumulate toxins from the environment that pose a threat to human health and, in some cases, human life. Poisoning can occur when a mollusc is bitten, touched, or eaten. To reduce this threat, many countries restrict shellfish imports. Among the deadly mollusks, one can note some types of cones from the class of gastropods and the blue-ringed octopus (which, however, attacks a person only if provoked). All octopuses are venomous to some degree.

However, it should be noted that the number of people who die from contact with mollusks is less than 10% of people who die from contact with jellyfish. Bite tropical species octopuses Octopus apollyon causes severe inflammation that can last for more than a month even with proper treatment. Bite Octopus rubescens with the wrong treatment, it can cause tissue necrosis, and with the right one, it can be limited to a week of headaches and general weakness.

Living cones like this textile cone are dangerous for pearl divers but are of interest to neuroscientists.

Cones of all kinds are poisonous and can sting when touched. But representatives of most species are too small to be a serious threat to humans. Usually these predatory gastropods feed on marine invertebrates (some large species also feed on fish). Their venom is a mixture of many toxins, some of which are fast acting, while others are slower but more potent. Based on the chemical composition of cone toxins, they require less energy to produce than snake or spider toxins. There are documented evidence of numerous cases of poisoning, as well as a number of deaths. Apparently, only a few large species pose a serious danger to humans: those that are able to catch and kill fish.

There are also bivalves that are poisonous to humans; poisoning may be accompanied by a paralytic effect (eng. Paralytic shellfish poisoning, PSP ), memory loss Amnesic shellfish poisoning, ASP ), gastroenteritis, long-term neurological disorders, and even death. The toxicity of bivalves is due to their accumulation of toxin-producing unicellular organisms: diatoms or dinoflagellates, which they filter out of the water; sometimes toxins persist even in well-cooked clams. Yes, bivalve venom Crassostrea echinata due to protist toxins Pyrodinium bahamense from the group of dinoflagellates.

Giant tridacna ( Tridacna gigas) can theoretically pose a danger to a person, firstly, because of the sharp edges, and secondly, it can clamp the diver’s limb with the wings. At the same time in currently no human deaths due to tridacna have been reported.

Mollusks are found almost everywhere on Earth - in marine and fresh waters, on land, in the oceans - to the maximum depths, in the mountains - to the line of eternal snows. There are no shellfish only in sandy deserts. Now at least 130 thousand species of mollusks live on the globe, and the largest number of species live in the tropics. Molluscs are divided into seven classes: gastropods, monoplacophores, armored, groove-bellied, bivalves, spadefoots and cephalopods.
Mollusks are surprisingly different both in appearance and lifestyle. Sedentary pearls and swift squids, small fragile ambers and giant octopuses are all representatives of mollusks.
Most mollusks have in common the presence of an outer shell built from calcium carbonate and a protein substance. The shell consists of three layers: organic, porcelain and mother-of-pearl. A thin organic layer protects it from the effects of water, the porcelain-like layer takes on the main mechanical load.

The inner layer - mother-of-pearl - consists of thin calcareous plates overlapping each other. It was the mother-of-pearl of bivalve mollusks that people have used since ancient times for the manufacture of various jewelry.
On the one hand, the shell quite reliably protects the body of the mollusk from predators and water loss, on the other hand, it hinders their evolution. The shell mollusk reacts to all stimuli in the same way - it is drawn into the shell. He does not need to think about what to do when irritated different nature, there is only one reaction. Since there is no need to think, it means that there is no need to improve the nervous system, there is no need for complex behavioral reactions. Once the shell "created" the mollusks, and later it began to slow down their development. Therefore, it is not surprising that among modern molluscs we can observe all stages of the disappearance of the shell - from snails with a well-developed shell to slugs, in which the remains of the shell are preserved in the form of a plate lying in the thickness of the mantle. In slugs, the brain has a more complex structure, and their behavior is more diverse than in shell snails.
The shell may consist of one piece (classes of monoplacophorans and gastropods, or snails), of two more or less identical valves (class of bivalves, or shells), of eight separate plates (class of shells).
The body of the mollusk is covered with a special skin fold - the mantle. The space between the mantle and the body is called the mantle cavity.
The shape of the body of mollusks is determined by the shape of the shell, and it is different for different classes of mollusks. So it is impossible to derive a single body structure scheme for all mollusks. They have the following body parts: head, leg and torso. But bivalve mollusks do not have a head, and cephalopods do not have legs, instead of it they have tentacles.
Shell and majority body gastropods twisted into a spiral. In bivalves, the shell consists of two valves that can open and close. Some mollusks do not have an outer shell at all, like the slugs, pests in our gardens. Instead of a shell, they have a thin calcareous plate covered with a mantle.
Gills and some sense organs are located in the mantle cavity of mollusks, openings of the kidneys, hindgut and reproductive apparatus open into it. Mollusks are the first representatives of the animal to have a liver.
The substance for the construction of the shell is secreted by special cells of the mantle. As the mantle grows, so does the size of the shell. Water constantly circulates in the mantle cavity of molluscs and washes the gills, bringing them oxygen. To create a continuous flow of water in the mantle cavity, there are two more holes: inlet and outlet siphons. Fresh water enters the cavity through the inlet siphon, and waste water is ejected through the outlet.
Mollusks have another important feature - they all have a kind of organ called the radula, or grater. The radula is located in the mouth of the mollusk and is, figuratively speaking, a combination of tongue and teeth: at the bottom of the oral cavity there is a kind of cartilage, on which there are rows of teeth of various shapes for grinding food. In herbivorous molluscs, the teeth of the radula are mostly small, the teeth of predators are larger, often in the form of a gaff or dagger. Some sea snails have a channel inside their teeth through which poison flows from a special poisonous gland.
Those who are fond of aquariums appreciate ampoule snails (they belong to the class of gastropods) for their ability to clean glass from algae with a grater.
Mollusks breathe either oxygen dissolved in water with the help of one or two gills, or air with the help of a single lung. The so-called primary water mollusks, whose ancestors never left the water, breathe with gills. When animals move to land, the gill disappears, and it is replaced by a lung located in the mantle cavity. But life does not stand still, and some shellfish leave the land again.
Mollusks have long served man not only as food and a means of decoration. In Oceania, Africa and America, mollusk shells were even used as money. The natives of the Pacific Islands make multi-meter cords from nassa snail shells strung on them. Africa even in the 20th century. “kauri” money from the shells of cyprian snails was also common. In North America, abalone shells were used as money, and the Indians embroidered their wampum leather belts with pieces of bussicon snail shells. These were not simple belts - among the Indians they served as documents.


bivalves


Shellfish

The class of shell mollusks, or chitons, is purely maritime group. These sedentary animals live at different depths, including in the coastal tidal zone. Chitons are easily recognizable by their shell, which consists of eight plates. For example, tonicella. By the nature of their food, chitons are grazing animals: they crawl slowly, scraping algae from stones with powerful teeth of the radula.


Class Monoplacophora

This amazing group, which can be fully called living fossils. Fossilized remains of monoplacophorans were found by paleontologists as early as the 19th century. And in 1952, off the western coast of Mexico, in the ocean, at a depth of 3590 m, the first living representative of this class, neopilin, was discovered.


gastropods

Slugs
There are also unpleasant creatures among mollusks - slugs, pests of gardens and orchards. If you look at a slug, you will not see its usual shell. And it's not that the slugs don't have it, it's just that it has been reduced (reduced) into a small plate that is covered by the mantle.
Several species of slugs live in our country, they all look alike, and only one stands out among them - a large garden slug. It is colorfully colored (black spots are scattered over a gray background) and reaches an impressive length - 15 cm.
Without exception, slugs are malicious pests. cultivated plants. During the day they sit in some inconspicuous damp place, and with the onset of twilight they go to profit in the garden, where they eat not only tender greens, but also the upper part of root crops. They especially love delicious berries - strawberries and wild strawberries.
But the slugs themselves are not attractive to anyone as food. Only toads and hedgehogs are not averse to eating them, and the rest of the animals are scared away by the unpleasant mucus that covers their body.

Nudibranch mollusks are amazing representatives of the class of gastropods. Firstly, they do not have a shell at all, which is characteristic of all mollusks. Secondly, they lack a mantle cavity. Thirdly, their gills are different from those of snails: they are outgrowths of the body and can be located around the anus or in rows throughout the body. The lobes of the liver enter these outgrowths of the body. Fourth, some nudibranch molluscs feed on intestinal mollusks, such as poisonous polyps. Nudibranchs are not afraid of the stinging cells of polyps - the trick is that they eat them, but do not digest them. These cells accumulate in the very lobes of the liver and serve as weapons and protection for nudibranch mollusks.


cephalopods

Cephalopods are the owners of the largest brain among molluscs, they have a fast reaction and a good memory. Cephalopods include octopuses, squids and cuttlefish. Unlike other mollusks, cephalopods have tentacles with suction cups that serve as their arms. Cephalopods surpassed everyone in their originality! They are not only the largest of the mollusks, but also the most complex. You certainly imagine the appearance of squids and octopuses well. These mollusks do not have a shell, their soft body “absorbed” it, and only a thin cartilaginous plate, the gladius, remained from the shell.
In the structure of these mollusks, the head and tentacles stand out, they are also legs - it is not without reason that they were called cephalopods. With the help of such legs, cephalopods can perform quite subtle manipulations (so it turns out that these are “legs”). Squids have ten, octopuses have eight tentacles covered with two rows of suction cups. But the first thing you pay attention to is not even numerous tentacles, but the expressive eyes of a cephalopod. The eyes of octopuses, for example, are very similar to human ones: they not only see well, but are even capable of accommodation (focusing at different distances).
The octopus also has eyelids, only they close in a completely different way than in humans: the circular muscle closes the eyeball from all sides.
In addition to vision, octopuses have a well-developed sense of touch and smell. In their travels along the seabed, octopuses rely mainly on the sense of smell - eyes in muddy water can let down. But these animals do not hear very well: it is believed that they react only to very loud sounds.
Octopuses are excellent hunters: in addition to eight strong tentacles, they have one more weapon - horny jaws resembling the beak of a bird of prey. The bite of an octopus is poisonous, its poison is neurotoxic, that is, it affects the nervous system of the victims (fish, crabs, shrimp), causing paralysis. It is also dangerous for humans.
Another interesting feature of cephalopods is the “jet engine”. Near the neck they have a wide funnel - a siphon coming out of the mantle cavity. Having collected water in the cavity, the mollusk throws it out of the siphon with force, moving forward. Octopuses thus move in fairly fast jerks, and squids, with their streamlined body, rush like rockets. There is only one inconvenience: the siphon is directed towards the tentacles, and therefore the cephalopods have to swim backwards. From here, by the way, came the opinion that cuttlefish (they are also cephalopods) always “retreat”. In fact, in a calm state, cuttlefish swim head first, like all other animals.
Squids most of the time slowly swim head first, helping themselves with their fins. During the hunt, when needed high speed, they use jet thrust. This method of movement requires high energy costs, so animals cannot use it all the time.
The ancestors of cephalopods - octopuses, squids and their relatives - are ancient, long-extinct mollusks, ammonites and belemnites.
Ammonites looked like coil snails - they had the same shell, twisted in a flat spiral. But the sizes of these shells, and hence the mollusks themselves, were very different - from very small, a couple of centimeters in diameter, to incredibly huge three meters. Ammonites reigned serenely in the ancient seas 400 million years ago.
A little later, belemnites appeared, which looked more like modern squids. To this day, people find small, pointed, fossilized shells of these mollusks, which are called "devil's fingers." The belemnite shell, like the ammonite, was divided into chambers and served as a kind of float.
But no less ancient cephalopods, nautiluses, have survived to this day. They have hardly changed over millions of years, their current appearance is almost the same as it was in ancient times.
Nautilus can sink to such depths where a strong steel tube would be flattened, unable to withstand the enormous pressure of the water, and he can! Its secret is not at all in the strength of the shell, but in the air pressure in its chambers, which “balances” the external water pressure.
From the swirling shell of a nautilus, almost a hundred arms-tentacles look out (the males, however, have fewer of them), devoid of suckers.
Argonauts are the closest relatives of nautiluses. Their shell is very thin, slightly curled. Argonauts are notable for the fact that their males are 20 times smaller than females! In addition, they reproduce in an amazing way. When the time comes to acquire offspring, one tentacle of the male breaks off and, taking with it the reproductive products (i.e., male germ cells), goes in search of a female. That's who the expression "offer a hand" takes on a literal meaning! The male argonaut is not in a hurry for a long journey - the “intelligent” limb will do everything by itself.
Relatives of the octopus - squids are no less amazing creatures. Outwardly, they are somewhat different from their counterparts: their body is narrower, the tentacles are not eight, but ten, and an additional pair (these two tentacles are called "arms") are longer than the others. "Hands" end in a kind of extension with suction cups and hooks and are used for hunting. When the squid moves quickly, all its tentacles fold into one bundle - with them, like a steering wheel, the mollusk changes the direction of movement. If there is no need to rush anywhere, then it swims with the help of fins, it can also help with a jet of water thrown out from under the mantle.
Squids are able to develop such speed that they jump out of the water, rush through the air and dive back into the water. A similar method of movement is used, for example, by the squid stenoteuthis, escaping from a school of voracious tuna.
Interesting squid eyes. In some species, they are of different sizes - one is larger than the other. A small eye helps to navigate near the surface of the water, where it is light, and a large one is able to capture the weakest light in the dark depths of the water.
The body of deep-sea squids is very often decorated with a pattern of luminous dots or spots. They are called photophores. Each photophore has a hemispherical shape. Its bottom is covered with a shiny fabric, which plays the role of a mirror reflector. In front of it is a mass of phosphorescent cells. And on top - a transparent lens, which can be closed by a diaphragm (an opaque layer of black cells). The diaphragm, when necessary, "extinguishes" the luminous spot.
Some squids even have muscles that allow them to turn the photophore in different directions, changing the direction of illumination. It turns out that the photophore acts like a car headlight - nature long before man invented such a light source. Often, photophores are located next to the eyes, and even in front of the eyes themselves. Apparently, this helps to view various objects in the dark.
Unlike octopuses, which love to change color, squids are more permanent creatures. They do not live on the motley bottom, but in the transparent water column. So squids are able to change color from golden to red-brown, but usually remain colorless. And only an emotional shock can make a squid radically “repaint”.
But the cuttlefish dressed in a striped outfit. Of course, this coloring does not always merge with the colors of the underwater landscape, but it helps to disguise itself in a different way. The stripes, as it were, dismember the body of the mollusk into several parts, thereby hiding its true outlines. In the animal kingdom, a similar principle of “separating coloration” is very widely used. Some cuttlefish are even better at “changing their appearance” than octopuses, instantly drawing stripes or spots on themselves, depending on what is needed for camouflage.
Cuttlefish are able to illuminate the space around them. In the recess of the ink sac they have a "bubble" of bacteria that glows very brightly. The bottom of the recess is lined with a layer of shiny cells that play the role of a reflector. And in order to extinguish its flashlight, the cuttlefish secretes a few drops of ink into the mantle cavity: they cover the bag with bacteria with a thin film, “turning off” the light.
The marriage ceremony of cuttlefish is interesting. The male swims next to the female, following her everywhere. From time to time, the couple stops, the male swims forward, and the tentacles of the “lovers” intertwine, as if in an embrace. Such courtship can last more than one hour, but their result is always the same - the female lays eggs, hanging them on thin stems in a secret grotto. Performing this difficult work, she uses her side "hands". The cuttlefish ties the stalk extending from the egg around the support, and intertwines the stalk of the second egg with the stalk of the first - as a result, a bunch of eggs is formed, similar to a bunch of grapes (in Italy it is called “sea grapes”). Some species of cuttlefish that lay their eggs on the bottom mask the clutch with ink.
Many mysteries of cephalopods have not yet been solved. The problem, in particular, is that it is not easy to keep cephalopods in captivity - they are very sensitive to the quality of water and the amount of oxygen dissolved in it.

molluscum contagiosum refers to a number of infectious diseases that can manifest as rashes in the genital area, in the lower abdomen, on the pubis and thighs. Erythematous formations have a characteristic shape, they are small, dense in consistency, with a slightly shiny surface.

Molluscum contagiosum virus, considered the causative agent of the disease, belongs to smallpox viruses. In its purified form, it has an oval or rectangular shape, the size of the pathogen reaches 230–330 nm. In very thin sections of infected cells, inclusion bodies are located in compartments that are formed by thin walls. The space between the partitions is occupied by nests of mature particles of the pathogen. The cytoplasm around the cavities resembles a honeycomb and is divided into larger spherical honeycombs compared to viral particles. Molluscum contagiosum has a cytopathic effect at the level of human cells, but does not multiply in tissue cultures in serial passages.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum on the genitals may appear 14-15 days after the virus enters the human body. A case is described when the disease first made itself felt seven months after the tattoo was applied to the skin. The first signs of molluscum contagiosum, which patients can notice on their own, are nodules the size of a pinhead, having a dense texture. Over time, the rash becomes massive, while the skin does not undergo any changes.

Patients, as a rule, do not note any subjective sensations. In the central part of each growth there is a small depression with a hole. With a slight pressure on the papule, a white flaky mass is released, which consists of the ovoid bodies of the pathogen, also called molluscs.

For an accurate diagnosis, examination of the patient and laboratory testing are necessary. Characteristic features disease is considered a sharp border between the nodule and healthy skin, the absence of inflammation, an umbilical depression in the central part of the formation. A diagnostic sign is also a liquid in the form of a white slurry, which flows out when the papule is squeezed.

When examining the contents of the vesicles under a microscope, you can see the dead cells of the epidermis and many ovoid bodies.

In some cases, treatment is carried out using diathermocoagulation or electrolysis. If the rashes are massive, then patients are prescribed tetracycline antibiotics.

shellfish

The structure of molluscs. All molluscs can be given the following characteristic: they are secondary cavities and have salient feature structures - bilateral symmetry of the body. However, in some groups, the symmetry of the body may be violated for the second time due to uneven growth or displacement of organs. For example, this happens in gastropods as a result of the presence of a turbospiral shell. The body can be roughly divided into a non-segmented trunk, head, and leg. On the dorsal side, many of them have a shell, while some of them are absent or poorly developed. On the head are tentacles, mouth, eyes. In representatives of the class of bivalves, the head is secondarily reduced. The organ of movement is the leg - a muscular unpaired formation of the abdominal part of the body. In inhabitants of water bodies, the leg can be transformed into a swimming organ, in some species it is completely lost. The trunk is an internal sac with internal organs, outside covered with a mantle - a fold of skin. The mantle takes part in the creation of the shell. In the mantle cavity, formed directly by the mantle and the body, there are respiratory organs, sensory organs, and the ducts of the reproductive and excretory systems and the anus also open into this cavity.

Nutrition shellfish. Nutrition of terrestrial mollusks - plant food, marine - plankton, bacteria, small plants. Many are exclusively herbivores. Sedentary organisms from the class of bivalves are filter feeders by the mechanism of obtaining food by filtering water through the gills, followed by the movement of settling particles into the oral cavity. The digestive system is represented by a through intestine, consisting of three parts: anterior, middle (stomach) and posterior, ending with an anus. Mollusks have a paired digestive gland called the "liver". Breathing is carried out through ctenidia (the prototype of the gills), and in terrestrial forms the mantle cavity turns into a lung. The circulatory system is open, the heart consists of one ventricle and has from one to four atria in different species. Nervous system It is represented by a peripharyngeal nerve ring and several paired nerve nodes - ganglia. excretory system consists of two kidneys.

reproduction shellfish. Some species of mollusks are dioecious, but there are also hermaphrodites. A larva or a formed mollusk emerges from a fertilized egg in lower forms, rare higher forms are viviparous.

Molluscum contagiosum: prevention and treatment

What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection. It is most commonly seen in children, especially preschool age, as well as in adults with reduced immunity.

How can you get molluscum contagiosum?

1) by contact - when the skin comes into contact with the affected skin (direct contact) or the skin with a contaminated surface (when using common hygiene items - a household way). Through dirty toys bed sheets, underwear, a washcloth, a towel, etc. used by a child whose skin has already developed molluscum contagiosum - these are the most characteristic ways of transmitting this disease in children. This method of infection is also characteristic of adults. Also, the mollusk is easily transmitted from a surface contaminated with the virus - you can get infected in a bath, sauna, pool and other similar public places.

The first 2 weeks, and sometimes several months, the mollusk that has fallen on the skin or mucous membrane does not manifest itself in any way. Then, after a period of latent form, the disease enters the active phase. On the skin, first appear single, then multiple painless rounded dense nodules with an impression in the center.

Appearance of molluscum contagiosum

The color of the rash can vary from normal skin color to pink, sometimes with a waxy or pearly tint. The size of the nodules can be different - from millet grain to a pea (from 1 mm to 15 mm), in rare cases, as a result of the fusion of several nodules, giant molluscum contagiosum can form.

When pressed with tweezers, a white mushy mass is released from the nodule, in which, in addition to keratinized cells, there are many mollusc-like bodies.

Subjective sensations are absent, but sometimes a feeling of itching appears in the area of ​​the nodules. It is possible to attach a secondary bacterial infection with an inflammatory reaction.

What areas of the skin are most commonly affected by molluscum contagiosum?

Most often, rashes are located on the face, neck, hands, torso, and abdomen.

In children, molluscum contagiosum may affect any area of ​​the skin, more often on the skin of the hands, face, neck, except for the palms and soles.

In adults, molluscum contagiosum is more common on the skin of the anterior abdominal wall, thighs, perineum, and external genitalia.

Molluscum contagiosum prevention

Molluscum contagiosum is more common in children and adults with weakened immune systems. To prevent the manifestation of the disease, it is necessary to increase the body's resistance - to conduct healthy lifestyle life, take vitamins. In winter, when the body is most weakened, it is necessary to prescribe immunostimulants - consult your doctor.

Children are especially susceptible to infection with molluscum contagiosum. It is necessary to regularly examine the child's skin: molluscum contagiosum is very quickly transmitted in children's groups from the sick to the healthy. With identified on early term disease is much easier to deal with. In addition, the detection of the disease will prevent infection of other children. To prevent the spread of infection, it is necessary to isolate a sick child from an organized team, to conduct preventive examinations of children in preschool children's institutions and schools.

Prevention of molluscum contagiosum is to follow the rules of personal hygiene. See a dermatologist as soon as possible if unusual rashes, redness, peeling, itching, etc. appear. This will help identify other unpleasant diseases, such as fungus, allergies, or contract dermatitis.

Molluscum contagiosum treatment

Although molluscum contagiosum most often does not cause pain, treatment is still necessary, mainly because of its contagiousness. When attached to the nodules caused by the molluscum secondary infection, severe inflammation of the surrounding tissues can occur. With the advanced form of molluscum contagiosum, a generalized infection can be observed - when rashes begin to appear throughout the body. This condition is especially characteristic of HIV-infected people.

Try not to damage the molluscum contagiosum - infectivity in this case increases dramatically. After damage to the mollusk, it must be removed, and the wound should be cauterized, for example, with brilliant green or iodine.

At the moment, molluscum contagiosum is treated by removing the nodules, followed by the appointment of a course of antiviral and immunostimulating agents.

Molluscum contagiosum is removed by a dermatologist on an outpatient basis. Each element of the molluscum contagiosum is removed with tweezers, or scraped out with a sharp Volkmann spoon, followed by lubrication of the lesions with an alcohol solution of iodine, a saturated solution of potassium permanganate.

Removal of molluscum contagiosum can also be carried out using a laser - this method may be most appropriate when the molluscum is located on the face, neck, arms and other exposed parts of the body. When removed by a laser, healthy tissues surrounding the mollusk are not disturbed, healing is faster, and there are no scars. Methods such as diathermocoagulation, cryotherapy can also be used.

Within 4 days after the procedure for removing the mollusk, it is necessary to lubricate the affected area with iodine once a day. Lubrication of wounds with Viferon ointment gives good results. After removal, the mollusk may appear for some time. It is necessary to remove new rashes until they completely disappear. To prevent recurrence, the remaining wounds are lubricated with antiviral ointments such as viferon ointment or cycloferon liniment (improve local immunity), acyclovir ointment, etc.

Particular attention should be paid to activities after the removal of the mollusk. This is the treatment with disinfectant solutions of things for the individual use of the sick person, boiling bed and underwear, clothes. Since there is also a household route of transmission of the infection, the use of the patient's linen, bed and bathroom by other uninfected family members should be avoided. For the same reason, when a virus is detected in one family member, it is recommended to examine the rest and, first of all, the person with whom the patient is in intimate relationships. Only after the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum disappear can a person return to sexual activity.

For local drug treatment of molluscs, you can use

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier. When applied to the skin, imiquimod increases the production of antiviral and antitumor agents - interferon alfa and tumor necrosis factor. According to the description given by the manufacturer, as well as according to a number of clinical trials, imiquimod allows you to get rid of the manifestations of molluscum contagiosum in 8-10 weeks of use. A serious factor limiting the prescription of the drug can be considered the use only in adults (strictly contraindicated for children), the high cost for a small amount of cream, as well as the need for long-term use.

Imiquimod is part of such preparations as Aldara cream (manufacturer 3M Health Care Limited (UK), Imiquimod cream 5% - generic Aldara company Nycomed (Denmark), Imiquad cream 5% (manufacturer Glenmark Pharmaceuticals India).

  • interferon alfa-2a ointment

    • Antiviral, immunomodulatory, antitumor, antiproliferative. Prevents viral infection of cells, changes the properties of the cell membrane, prevents adhesion and penetration of the virus into the cell. Initiates the synthesis of a number of specific enzymes, disrupts the synthesis of viral RNA and viral proteins in the cell. Trade name: Viferon (instruction here), Infagel ointment (instruction here), etc.

  • meglumine acridone acetate as liniment

    • It has a wide range of pharmacological activity: antiviral, immunocorrective, anti-inflammatory. Trade name of meglumine acridocetate Cycloferon. Instructions for the drug Cycloferon liniment here.

    The type of molluscs includes invertebrate coelomic animals with bilateral symmetry. This type includes two subtypes (lateral nerve and testate), divided into seven classes: gastropods, cephalopods, spadefoots, bivalves, armored, solenogasters, pit-tails. 98% of mollusk species are included in the two most extensive classes - Gastropods and Bivalves. The type unites more than 130 thousand species of animals that are distributed throughout our planet. In the course of evolution, molluscs appeared about 500 million years ago. Several classes are known from the Lower Cambrian. Many scientists agree that these organisms evolved from primary coelomic animals. This is their common ancestor with annelids, with which mollusks have common features buildings. Habitat - seas, fresh water. Some of them live on land in a humid environment.

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    The virus is transmitted sexually or by household means (with household or hygiene items when they are shared with a sick person). Infection can occur in the pool, children's team. The disease occurs in all countries of the world in a sporadic or epidemiological form.

    Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum on the genitals

    Papules are painless, hemispherical in shape, in some cases slightly flattened. The formations have the color of healthy skin or a pinkish tint, they can be located individually or in groups.

    According to the results of histological examination, separate inclusions are formed in the basal layer of the skin. Over time, increasing in size, they completely fill the cell, pushing the nucleus to the side.

    In some cases, the formations can merge with each other, forming a giant mollusk, in the central part of the nodule, an ulceration similar to an epithelioma is observed. At differential diagnosis examine the contents of the papule, squeezing it from the sides. The mass, typical for molluscum contagiosum, is white and mushy in consistency, which is not characteristic of epithelioma. In addition, rashes caused by molluscum contagiosum must be distinguished from the symptoms of smallpox, pustular syphilis, etc.

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    Treatment of molluscum contagiosum on the genitals

    Treatment of molluscum contagiosum in the genital area can be carried out by scraping individual formations with a special sharp spoon. At the same time, the contents of the papules are squeezed out with tweezers, and the place of manipulation after the end of the procedure is treated with iodine.

    In order to prevent molluscum contagiosum on the genitals, both sexual partners are treated. Until the symptoms of the disease are completely eliminated, patients are advised to refrain from sexual intercourse, not to use common household items, bedding, etc. Treatment should be carried out under medical supervision until recovery.

    Molluscum contagiosum - photo, causes and symptoms (in children, in adults), diagnosis and treatment. Methods for removing molluscum contagiosum on the skin of the face, on the eyelid, on the genitals, etc.

    molluscum contagiosum is an infectious dermatosis caused by a virus of the smallpox family, and manifested by the formation of small dense nodules on the skin with an umbilical depression in the center. The disease is quite widespread among children and adults, as it is transmitted by contact and sexually. The disease is usually self-healing within 6 to 24 months, and therefore it does not always require treatment. Molluscum contagiosum is not a health hazard. but creates visible cosmetic defects, which many people want to get rid of with the help of treatment, without waiting for the rash to go away on their own.

    General characteristics of the disease

    Molluscum contagiosum is also called contagious shellfish. molluscum epitheliale or epithelioma contagiosum. The disease is a viral infection. in which the skin is affected. The virus enters the cells of the basal layer of the epidermis and causes accelerated division cell structures, as a result of which small outgrowths-nodules of a rounded shape with an umbilical depression in the center are formed on the surface of the skin. A recess in the central part of the nodule is formed due to the destruction of epidermal cells. The growths themselves contain viral particles and a large number of randomly located epidermal cells.

    Molluscum contagiosum is a benign disease, and does not apply to tumor formations. since the formation and growth of nodules is due to the effect of the virus on a specific small area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin. There is no inflammatory process in the epidermis in the growth zones of molluscum contagiosum nodules.

    Molluscum contagiosum is quite widespread in the population, and people of any age and gender get sick. However, most often the infection occurs in children 2 to 6 years old, adolescents and people over 60 years of age. Children under one year of age almost never become infected with molluscum contagiosum, most likely due to the presence of maternal antibodies. transmitted to the baby through the placenta during fetal development.

    Most at risk of infection molluscum contagiosum in immunocompromised people. for example, HIV-infected, cancer patients, allergic people, suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and taking cytostatics or glucocorticoid hormones. In addition, there is a high risk of infection in those who are constantly in contact with the skin of a large number of people, for example, massage therapists, nurses, doctors, nurses in hospitals and clinics, pool trainers, bath attendants, etc.

    Molluscum contagiosum is ubiquitous, that is, in any country and climate zone, infection with this infection is possible. Moreover, in regions with a hot and humid climate, as well as with a low level of daily household hygiene, epidemics and outbreaks of molluscum contagiosum are even recorded.

    The disease is caused orthopoxvirus. which belongs to the family Poxviridae, the subfamily Chordopoxviridae and the genus Molluscipoxvirus. This virus is related to variola, chickenpox and vaccinia viruses. Currently, 4 varieties of orthopoxvirus have been isolated (MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3, MCV-4), but molluscum contagiosum is most often caused by viruses of types 1 and 2 (MCV-1, MCV-2).

    Molluscum contagiosum virus is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person through close contact (skin to skin), as well as indirectly through the use of common household items, such as shower accessories, underwear, dishes, toys, etc. In adults, infection with molluscum contagiosum, as a rule, occurs sexually, while the virus infects a healthy partner not through the secrets of the genital organs, but through close contact of the bodies. That is why, in adults, molluscum contagiosum nodules are very often located in the groin, on the lower abdomen, in the perineum, and also on the inner thighs.

    However, it has now been established that many people, even when infected, do not get sick with molluscum contagiosum, which is due to the functioning of the immune system, which does not allow the virus to multiply, but suppresses and destroys it, preventing the infection from moving into an active course.

    From the moment the molluscum contagiosum virus enters the skin of a healthy person until nodules appear, it takes from 2 weeks to six months. Respectively, incubation period infection ranges from 14 days to 6 months.

    After the end of the incubation period, the disease enters the active stage, in which tight raised nodules spherical or oval shape and various sizes - from 1 to 10 mm in diameter. Sometimes nodules merging with each other can form giant plaques up to 3–5 cm in diameter. Nodules of molluscum contagiosum are dense, shiny, painted in pearly white, pink or gray-yellow. Some nodules may have an umbilical depression in the center, colored red-pink. However, such impressions are usually present not in all nodules, but only in 10-15%. When pressing on the nodule with tweezers, a white mushy mass comes out of it, which is a mixture of dead epidermal cells and viral particles.

    The nodules slowly increase in size, reaching a maximum in 6 to 12 weeks after the appearance. After this, the formations do not grow, but gradually die off, as a result of which they disappear on their own after 3 to 6 months.

    The number of rashes can be different - from single nodules to numerous papules. Due to the fact that self-infection is possible, the number of nodules may increase over time, since the person himself spreads the virus over the skin.

    Usually, molluscum contagiosum nodules are concentrated on any one limited area of ​​​​the skin, and not scattered throughout the body, for example, in the armpits, on the abdomen, on the face, in the groin, etc. Most often, nodules are localized on the neck, trunk, armpits, face and genital area. In rare cases, elements of molluscum contagiosum are localized on the scalp, soles, on the skin of the lips, tongue, mucous membrane of the cheeks.

    Diagnostics molluscum contagiosum is not difficult, since the characteristic appearance nodules allows you to recognize the disease without using any additional techniques.

    Treatment molluscum contagiosum is not carried out in all cases, since usually within 6 to 9 months the nodules disappear on their own and no longer form. In rare cases, self-healing is delayed for a period of 3 to 4 years. However, if a person wants to get rid of the nodules without waiting for self-healing, then the formations are removed in various ways (mechanical scraping with a Volkmann spoon, cauterization with a laser, liquid nitrogen, electric current, etc.). Usually, the removal of molluscum contagiosum nodules is recommended for adults so that they do not serve as a source of infection for others. But in case of illness in children, dermatovenereologists most often recommend not to treat the infection, but to wait until the nodules pass on their own, because any procedure for removing formations is stressful for the child.

    Molluscum contagiosum - photo

    Photo of molluscum contagiosum in children.

    Photo of molluscum contagiosum in men.

    Photo of molluscum contagiosum in women.

    Causes of the disease (molluscum contagiosum virus)

    The cause of molluscum contagiosum is a pathogenic microorganism - orthopoxvirus from the family Poxviridae of the genus Molluscipoxvirus. This virus is ubiquitous, and affects people of any age and gender, as a result of which the population of all countries suffers from molluscum contagiosum.

    Currently, 4 varieties of orthopoxvirus are known, which are designated by Latin abbreviations - MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3 and MCV-4. The cause of molluscum contagiosum in countries former USSR most often are viruses of the first and second types - MCV-1 and MCV-2. Moreover, in children, molluscum contagiosum, as a rule, is provoked by type 1 orthopoxvirus (MCV-1), and in adults by type 2 virus (MCV-2). This situation is due to the fact that the type 1 virus is transmitted mainly by contact and indirectly, through common objects, and the type 2 virus is transmitted through sexual contact. However, all types of virus cause the same clinical manifestations.

    Ways of transmission of infection

    Molluscum contagiosum is transmitted only from person to person, since animals do not suffer from this infectious disease and are not virus carriers.

    Transmission of the molluscum contagiosum virus occurs from a sick person to healthy contact-household, mediated by contact, sexually and through water. Contact household way transmission consists in infecting a healthy person through touching the skin of a child or adult suffering from molluscum contagiosum. Accordingly, any tactile contact (for example, hugs, handshakes, close pressing to each other during peak hours in public transport, massage. wrestling, boxing, breastfeeding, etc.) with a person suffering from molluscum contagiosum can lead to the infection of this infection in any healthy person, regardless of age and gender.

    mediated contact path Molluscum contagiosum transmission is the most common and consists of infecting healthy people through touching common household items that have retained viral particles after they have been used by the person suffering from the infection. That is, infection can occur through toys, cutlery, dishes, bedding and underwear, carpets, furniture upholstery, towels, washcloths, razors and any other items that a person suffering from molluscum contagiosum has come into contact with. Due to the possibility of indirect infection in close groups, especially children, outbreaks of the disease occur episodically, when almost the entire group becomes infected.

    Sexual way transmission of molluscum contagiosum is typical only for adults who have unprotected sex (without a condom). With this transmission route, the nodules are always located in the immediate vicinity or in the genital area.

    Waterway transmission can be conditionally attributed to indirect-contact, since in this case, a person suffering from molluscum contagiosum introduces viral particles into the aquatic environment, which can be “picked up” by any other person who comes into contact with the same water. This route of transmission makes it possible to become infected with molluscum contagiosum when visiting pools and baths. saunas, water attractions, etc.

    In addition, a person who already has molluscum contagiosum may autoinfection through friction and scratching of the skin.

    Regardless of the route of transmission, the course and clinical manifestations of molluscum contagiosum are always the same.

    Not all cases of exposure to the virus result in infection, as some people are immune to this infection. That is, even if a person who is immune to molluscum contagiosum comes into contact with the virus, he will not become infected, and the infection will not develop in him. All other people who come into contact with the virus become infected and develop clinical signs.

    The most vulnerable and susceptible to infection with molluscum contagiosum are people with a reduced activity of the immune system, such as, for example, HIV-infected people taking glucocorticoid hormones. persons over 60, etc.

    Molluscum contagiosum - symptoms

    The course of the disease

    From the moment of infection with molluscum contagiosum to the first appearance of clinical symptoms, it takes from 2 to 24 weeks. After the end of the incubation period, small, dense, painless nodules 1 to 3 mm in diameter appear on the area of ​​the skin where the molluscum contagiosum virus has invaded. These nodules slowly increase in size up to 2-10 mm in diameter within 6-12 weeks, after which they disappear on their own within 6-12 weeks. In total, from the moment the first nodules appear to their complete disappearance, an average of 12-18 weeks passes, but in some cases the disease can proceed much longer - from 2 to 5 years. After recovery from molluscum contagiosum, lifelong immunity is developed, so re-infection occurs only in exceptional cases.

    However, until all the nodules on the skin have disappeared, self-infection is possible when combing or rubbing the affected skin against healthy ones. In this case, new nodules of molluscum contagiosum appear on the newly infected area of ​​the skin, which will also grow within 6-12 weeks, after which they will involute on their own for 12-18 weeks. Accordingly, the approximate period of self-healing must be counted by adding 18 months to the date of the appearance of the last nodule.

    Molluscum contagiosum is a benign disease that tends to go away on its own, without any special treatment, once the body's own immune system suppresses the activity of the virus. Rashes, as a rule, do not bother a person, because they do not hurt or itch, but for the most part they are only a cosmetic problem. In addition, the virus does not spread through the blood or lymph through the body and does not affect other organs and systems, as a result of which molluscum contagiosum is a safe disease, which most often for this reason is recommended not to be treated with special means, but simply to wait until one's own immunity kills the virus and, accordingly, the nodules will not disappear.

    However, people are often unwilling to wait for molluscum contagiosum nodules to go away on their own, but are willing to remove them for cosmetic reasons or to avoid being a source of infection to others. In such cases, you need to be mentally prepared for the fact that after the removal of existing nodules, new ones will appear, since only the process of destroying the rashes does not affect the activity of the virus in the thickness of the skin, and until your own immune system suppresses it, the pathogen can cause the formation of nodules again and again.

    After the self-disappearance of molluscum contagiosum nodules, there are no traces left on the skin - scars or scars, and only in rare cases can small areas of depigmentation form. If the nodules of the molluscum contagiosum were removed by various methods, then small and inconspicuous scars may form at the site of their localization.

    Sometimes the skin around the nodules of molluscum contagiosum becomes inflamed, in which case topical application of antibiotic ointments is necessary. The appearance of a nodule on the eyelid is a problem and an indication for its removal, since the growth of the formation can lead to visual impairment and loss of eyelash hair follicles.

    If a person develops molluscum contagiosum nodules in large numbers, in different parts of the body or are very large (more than 10 mm in diameter), then this may indicate immunodeficiency. In such cases, it is recommended to contact an immunologist to correct the immune status.

    Molluscum contagiosum symptoms

    The main and only symptom of molluscum contagiosum that can be seen with the naked eye is characteristic nodules protruding above the surface of the skin. Nodules can be localized on any part of the skin, but most often the formations form on the face, neck, upper chest, armpits, hands and forearms, lower abdomen, inner thighs, pubis, around the anus and on the skin integument in genital area. However, despite the wide range of localization options for molluscum contagiosum nodules, as a rule, all formations are always grouped in only one area of ​​the skin. For example, nodules can be located on the neck, on the face, or on the abdomen, but all the formations are grouped in only one area and are absent on other parts of the body. Moreover, usually all nodules of molluscum contagiosum are located on the area of ​​​​the skin into which the infection virus has penetrated. In rare cases, nodules can be randomly located on the entire surface of the body.

    Nodules do not appear one at a time and gradually, but almost simultaneously, several formations are formed, which begin to grow slowly. As a rule, from 5 to 10 nodules appear, but in some cases their number can reach several dozen.

    At the time of appearance, the nodules are small, 1–2 mm in diameter, but within 6–12 weeks they grow to 2–10 mm. Sometimes some elements can grow up to 15 mm in diameter, and usually there are nodules on the skin of different sizes, but the same appearance. If the formations of molluscum contagiosum are located close to each other, then they can merge, forming one giant bumpy surface up to 5 cm in diameter. Such giant nodes can become inflamed and suppurate, as a result of which crusts and ulcers form on their surface.

    At any stage of growth, the nodules protrude above the surface of the skin, have a hemispherical and slightly flattened top shape, smooth edges, a dense texture, and are painted in white-pearl or pale pink. Moreover, at the beginning of the disease, the formations have the shape of a dome, a very dense texture and color slightly lighter than the surrounding skin, and over time they become soft, take the form of a semicircle, and the color may change to pinkish. Often the nodules may have a waxy sheen. A few weeks after the appearance in the central part of the formations, a depression similar to the navel appears. When the nodules are squeezed from the sides, a white mushy mass containing dead epidermal cells and viral particles is released from the umbilical opening.

    The nodules have a smooth surface and are slightly different in color from the surrounding skin. The skin around the formations is usually unchanged, but sometimes an inflammatory rim is fixed around the perimeter of the nodules. The formations do not bother a person, because they do not hurt, do not itch, and, in principle, may not be noticed at all if they are localized in areas of the skin that are usually covered by clothing and are not visible. In rare cases, the nodules may occasionally itch. At these moments, it is very important to restrain yourself and not scratch the formations, since scratching and traumatizing the nodules can lead to the subsequent transfer of the virus to other areas of the skin. In such situations, self-infection occurs, and elements of molluscum contagiosum are formed on another area of ​​​​the skin into which the virus has been introduced. It must be remembered that until the disappearance of the last nodule, molluscum contagiosum remains infectious.

    With the localization of nodules on the eyelids, molluscum contagiosum can lead to conjunctivitis.

    The described clinical picture of molluscum contagiosum is a classic form of infection. However, in addition to this, the disease can occur in the following atypical forms that differ from the classical morphological features nodules:

  • Giant form- single nodules are formed in size from 2 cm in diameter or more.
  • Pedicular form- large large nodules are formed by merging closely spaced small ones. Moreover, such large knots are attached to the unchanged skin with a thin leg, that is, as if hanging on the skin.
  • Generalized form- several dozen nodules are formed, scattered over the entire surface of the skin of the body.
  • Miliary form- the nodules are very small, less than 1 mm in diameter, in appearance resembling milia ("millet").
  • Ulcerative cystic form- large nodes are formed by the merger of several small ones, the surface of which ulcerates or cysts form on it.

    • Regardless of the form of molluscum contagiosum, the course of infection is the same, and the differences relate only to the morphological characteristics of the nodules.

    Molluscum contagiosum: characteristics of the rash, infection, incubation period, symptoms, quarantine, consequences (opinion of a dermatovenereologist) - video

    Molluscum contagiosum in children

    About 80% of cases of molluscum contagiosum are recorded in children under 15 years of age. Thus, it can be said that children are more susceptible to infection compared to adults. Most often, molluscum contagiosum affects children aged 1 to 4 years. Until the age of one, children almost never get infected, because, as scientists suggest, they are protected by maternal antibodies obtained during fetal development. In addition, it is known that children with eczema are most at risk of infection. atopic dermatitis or taking glucocorticoid hormones for the treatment of any other disease.

    Most often, children become infected with molluscum contagiosum when visiting the pool and playing those sports. which involve close tactile contacts and body contact with each other (for example, wrestling, boxing, etc.).

    Symptoms and course molluscum contagiosum in children are exactly the same as in adults. However, due to weak volitional control of their desires, children can often comb the nodules of molluscum contagiosum and, thereby, become self-infected, transferring the virus to other areas of the skin, which leads to the constant appearance of new foci of rashes and prolongs the course of the disease. In addition, scratching the nodules can lead to their inflammation and the addition of a secondary infection that requires antibiotic treatment.

    In children, nodules can be localized anywhere on the body, but are most often fixed on the chest, abdomen, arms, legs, armpits, groin, and genitals. The location of the formations in the genital area does not necessarily mean that the child became infected during sexual contact. The kid could simply get the molluscum contagiosum virus on his fingers from a sick person, and then scratch the skin in the genital area, as a result of which the infection occurred precisely in this area of ​​​​the skin.

    Diagnostics molluscum contagiosum in children is not difficult, since the nodules have a characteristic appearance. Therefore, a dermatologist will make a diagnosis based on a simple examination of the formations. In some cases, when the dermatologist has doubts, he may take a biopsy or scraping from the nodule to study its structure under a microscope.

    Treatment molluscum contagiosum in children is usually not carried out, because after 3 months - 4 years all nodules disappear on their own, that is, self-healing occurs as a result of the fact that the immune system suppresses the activity of the virus. Therefore, given the fact that the molluscum contagiosum heals itself after a while, so as not to cause discomfort to the child, nodules are not removed. However, in some cases, doctors recommend removing nodules on the skin of children, as they constantly comb them and self-infect, as a result of which the disease flows for a very long time. In such situations, the nodules are removed mechanically, by freezing with liquid nitrogen, or using formulations containing substances to eliminate warts. such as salicylic acid. tretinoin, cantharidin, or benzoyl peroxide.

    Despite the presence various ways removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, doctors prefer not to use them in children, since all these methods will only help eliminate the formations, but will not prevent their reappearance, as long as the virus in the skin is active and not suppressed by the child's own immune system. In addition, any method can lead to the formation of scars, scars, burns or foci of depigmentation at the site of localization of nodules. And when the nodules pass on their own, scars or scars never form at the site of their localization, only sometimes foci of depigmentation can remain.

    For the fastest possible self-healing of molluscum contagiosum in children, the following rules must be observed:

  • Do not scratch, rub or injure the nodules;
  • Wash your hands often with soap;
  • Wipe areas of the body with nodules with disinfectant solutions (alcohol, chlorhexidine, etc.) 1-2 times a day;
  • If contacts with other children or people are coming, then to reduce the risk of infecting them, it is recommended to seal the nodules with adhesive tape and cover them with clothes;
  • Do not shave hair in areas of the body where nodules are localized;
  • Lubricate dry skin with cream to avoid cracks, ulceration and inflammation of the nodules.

    • Molluscum contagiosum in women

    The clinical picture, causative factors, course and principles of treatment of molluscum contagiosum in women do not have any features compared to men or children. For the course of pregnancy. molluscum contagiosum also does not affect the growth and development of the fetus, so women who are carrying a child and become infected with the infection may not worry about the health of the unborn baby.

    Features of the disease in men

    Molluscum contagiosum in men, like in women, does not have any obvious features. The only feature that can be hallmark infections in men is the possibility of localization of nodules on the skin of the penis, which leads to difficulties in sexual intercourse. In women, molluscum contagiosum never affects the mucous membranes of the vagina, but can only be localized on the skin in the genital area. Of course, this also creates difficulties during sexual intercourse, but not as pronounced as with the localization of nodules on the penis.

    Features of molluscum contagiosum of various localization

    Molluscum contagiosum on the face. When localizing nodules on the face, it is recommended not to remove them, but to leave them and wait for self-healing, because if the formations disappear on their own, then there will be no traces and scars in their place that create cosmetic defects. If you remove the knots with any modern method, then there is a risk of scarring and scarring.

    Molluscum contagiosum on the eyelid. If the nodule is localized on the eyelid, then it is recommended to remove it, because otherwise it can injure the mucous membrane of the eye and cause conjunctivitis or other more severe eye diseases.

    Molluscum contagiosum on the genitals. If the nodules are localized near the genitals, in the anus or on the penis, then it is better to remove them in any way, without waiting for them to disappear on their own. This tactic is based on the fact that the location of the nodules on the genitals or in the genital area leads to their traumatization when sexual contacts, which, in turn, provokes infection of the partner and the spread of infection to other areas of the skin. As a result, nodules that appear on the genitals can spread very quickly throughout the body.

    Diagnostics

    Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is not difficult and, as a rule, is made on the basis of an examination by a dermatologist of characteristic nodules. In almost all cases, no additional diagnostic methods are required to confirm the diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum.

    However, in some rather rare cases, when the doctor has doubts, additional examinations are carried out to confirm molluscum contagiosum. Such additional examinations consist in taking a small piece of the nodule and then examining it under a microscope. Microscopy of the nodule biopsy allows you to accurately determine what the nodule is and, accordingly, whether it is a manifestation of molluscum contagiosum or any other disease (for example, keratoacanthoma, syphilis, etc.).

    Molluscum contagiosum nodules distinguish from the following superficially similar formations. also localized on the skin:

  • Flat warts. Such warts, as a rule, are multiple, localized on the face and back of the hands, and are small rounded vesicles with a smooth surface, colored in the color of the surrounding skin.
  • Vulgar warts. As a rule, they are localized on the back of the hand and are dense blisters with an uneven and rough surface. Papules may be scaly and lack an umbilical depression in the center.
  • Keratoacanthoma. They are single convex formations that have a hemispherical shape and are painted in a pale red color or in a shade of normal surrounding skin. Keratoacanthomas are usually located on open areas of the skin and have depressions on the surface that look like small craters that are filled with horny scales. Horny masses are easily removed from the craters, and their cleaning does not cause bleeding. Attempts to remove the mushy contents of molluscum contagiosum nodules, on the other hand, often result in bleeding.
  • Miliums ("millet"). They are small white dots located in the sebaceous glands of the skin. Milia are formed due to the production of too dense sebum, which does not flow out of the pores, but remains in them and clogs their lumen. These formations are associated with a violation of fat metabolism, and are localized on the face in the form of numerous or single white dots.
  • Acne vulgar. They are inflamed papules of a conical shape with a soft consistency, painted in pink or bluish-red color.
  • Scabies. With scabies, small red or flesh-colored papules appear on the skin, arranged as if in lines. Papules with scabies are very itchy, unlike nodules of molluscum contagiosum. In addition, scabies nodules are usually localized in the interdigital spaces, on the crease of the wrist and under the mammary glands in women.
  • Dermatofibroma. They are hard and very dense nodules of various colors, which are pressed into the skin when pressed from the side. Dermatofibromas are never arranged in groups.
  • Basal cell carcinoma. Outwardly, the formations are very similar to molluscum contagiosum nodules, they also have a pearly sheen and are raised above the skin. But basal cell carcinoma is always single, these formations are never located in groups.

    • Which doctor should I contact with molluscum contagiosum?

    With the development of molluscum contagiosum, one should refer to dermatologist (make an appointment). which diagnoses and treats this disease. If the dermatologist is unable to perform any necessary removal manipulations, he will refer the patient to another specialist, for example, surgeon (make an appointment). physiotherapist (sign up) etc.

    Molluscum contagiosum - treatment

    General principles of therapy

    Currently, molluscum contagiosum, unless the nodules are localized not on the eyelids and not in the genital area, is recommended not to be treated at all, because after 3-18 months the immune system will be able to suppress the activity of the orthopoxvirus, and all the formations will disappear on their own, without leaving any on the skin. or traces (scars, scars, etc.). The fact is that immunity is developed to the molluscum contagiosum virus, but this happens slowly, so the body does not need a week to heal itself from the infection, as is the case with SARS. and several months or even up to 2 - 5 years. And if you remove molluscum contagiosum nodules before they disappear on their own, then, firstly, you can leave scars on the skin, and secondly, this increases the risk of their reappearance, and even in large quantities, since the virus is still active. Therefore, given that self-healing always occurs, and it is only a matter of time, doctors recommend not treating molluscum contagiosum by removing the nodules, but simply waiting a bit until they disappear on their own.

    The only situations when it is still recommended to remove molluscum contagiosum nodules are their localization on the genitals or on the eyelids, as well as the pronounced discomfort caused by education to a person. In other cases, it is better to leave the nodules and wait for them to disappear on their own after the suppression of the activity of the virus by the immune system.

    However, if a person wants to remove the nodules, then this is done. Moreover, the reason for such a desire, as a rule, are aesthetic considerations.

    To remove nodules of molluscum contagiosum, the following surgical methods are officially approved by the Ministries of Health of the CIS countries:

    • Curettage (scraping out nodules with a curette or Volkmann's spoon);
    • Cryodestruction (destruction of nodules with liquid nitrogen);
    • Husking (removal of the core of the nodules with thin tweezers);
    • Laser destruction (destruction of nodules CO 2 - laser);
    • Electrocoagulation (destruction of nodules by electric current - “cauterization”).

    In practice, in addition to the officially approved methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, other methods are also used. These methods consist in exposing the nodules of the molluscum contagiosum to various chemicals in the composition of ointments and solutions that can destroy the structure of the formations. So, at present, ointments and solutions containing tretinoin, cantharidin, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, imiquimod, podophyllotoxin, chlorophyllipt are used to remove nodules. fluorouracil. oxolin. benzoyl peroxide, as well as interferons alpha-2a and alpha 2b.

    Such chemical methods removal of the mollusk cannot be called folk methods, since they involve the use of drugs. as a result, they are considered to be informal, proven by practice, but not approved by the Ministries of Health. Since these methods, according to the reviews of doctors and patients, are quite effective and less traumatic compared to surgical methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, we will also consider them in the subsection below.

    Molluscum contagiosum removal

    Consider the characteristics of surgical and informal conservative methods for the removal of molluscum contagiosum. But first we consider it necessary to indicate that any surgical methods for removing nodules are quite painful, as a result of which it is recommended to use local anesthetics for manipulations. The best way anesthetizes the skin ointment EMLA 5%. Other anesthetics such as lidocaine. novocaine and others are ineffective.

    Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum. The nodules are pinpointed with a CO 2 laser beam or a pulsed laser. To destroy formations, it is optimal to set the following parameters of the laser beam - wavelength 585 nm, frequency 0.5 - 1 Hz, spot diameter 3 - 7 mm, energy density 2 - 8 J / cm 2. pulse duration 250 - 450 ms. During the procedure, each nodule is irradiated with a laser, after which the skin is treated with a 5% alcohol solution of iodine. If, after a week after the procedure, the nodules are not covered with crusts and have not fallen off, then another session of laser irradiation of the formations is performed.

    Laser therapy allows to achieve the destruction of 85 - 90% of nodules after the first session. Moreover, after the formations fall off, there are no noticeable scars and scars on the skin, which makes the method suitable for removing nodules for cosmetic reasons.

    Removal of molluscum contagiosum with liquid nitrogen. Each nodule is exposed to liquid nitrogen for 6-20 seconds, after which the skin is treated with a 5% alcohol solution of iodine. If nodules remain after a week, then they are re-destroyed with liquid nitrogen.

    This method is painful, and is not suitable for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules for cosmetic reasons, since after the destruction of formations with liquid nitrogen, blisters may appear on the skin, healing with the formation of scars and foci of depigmentation.

    Removal of molluscum contagiosum by electrocoagulation. The method consists in "cauterization" of the nodules with an electric current, similar to the "cauterization" of cervical erosion. After the procedure, the skin is smeared with a 5% alcohol solution of iodine and the result is evaluated after a week. If the nodules have not fallen off, then they are “cauterized” again.

    Removal of molluscum contagiosum by curettage and husking. The method consists in mechanical scraping of the nodule with a sharp Volkmann spoon or removal of formations with thin tweezers. The procedure is extremely painful and unpleasant, moreover, the removal of formations may be accompanied by bleeding. After mechanical removal of the nodules, all former places of their localization are treated with a 5% iodine solution or other antiseptics.

    These methods are unsuitable for removal of nodules for cosmetic reasons, since as a result of scraping or husking at the site of the formations, sinking scars can form.

    Molluscum contagiosum ointment - removal of nodules with chemicals. To remove molluscum contagiosum nodules, they can be regularly, 1 to 2 times a day, lubricated with ointments and solutions containing the following substances:

  • Tretinoin (Vesanoid, Lokacid, Retin-A, Tretinoin) - ointments are applied pointwise to the nodules 1-2 times a day for 6 hours, after which they are washed off with water. The nodules are lubricated until they disappear;
  • Cantharidin (Spanish fly or homeopathic preparations) - ointments are applied to the nodules pointwise 1-2 times a day until the formations disappear;
  • Trichloroacetic acid - a solution of 3% is applied pointwise 1 time per day to the nodules for 30-40 minutes, then washed off;
  • Salicylic acid - a solution of 3% is applied 2 times a day to the nodules, without washing off;
  • Imiquimod (Aldara) - the cream is applied to the nodules pointwise 3 times a day;
  • Podophyllotoxin (Vartek, Kondilin) ​​- the cream is applied pointwise to the nodules 2 times a day;
  • Fluorouracil ointment - applied to the nodules 2-3 times a day;
  • Oxolinic ointment - applied pointwise to the nodules 2 to 3 times a day with a thick layer;
  • Chlorophyllipt - the solution is applied pointwise to the nodules 2-3 times a day;
  • Benzoyl peroxide (Baziron AS. Ekloran, Indoksil, Effezel, etc.) - ointments and creams are applied pointwise to the nodules in a thick layer 2 times a day;
  • Interferons (Infagel. Acyclovir) - ointments and creams are applied to the nodules 2-3 times a day.

    • The duration of the use of any of the above drugs is determined by the rate of disappearance of molluscum contagiosum nodules. In general, as the observations of dermatologists show, for the complete removal of nodules by any of the indicated means, it is necessary to apply it continuously for 3 to 12 weeks. All of the above remedies have comparable effectiveness, so you can choose any drug that, for some subjective reasons, you like more than others. However, dermatologists recommend trying Oxolinic Ointment, Fluorouracil Ointment, or benzoyl peroxide products first, as these are the safest.

    Molluscum contagiosum: removal of papules by scraping, laser, Surgitron, liquid nitrogen (advice from a dermatologist) - video

    Molluscum contagiosum, treatment with antiviral drugs and immunomodulators: Acyclovir, Isoprinosine, Viferon, Allomedin, Betadine, Oxolinic ointment, iodine - video

    Treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children

    Treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children is carried out by the same methods as in adults, and in compliance with the general principles of therapy. That is, the optimal treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children is the absence of treatment and just waiting for the body to suppress the activity of the virus itself, and all the nodules simply disappear without a trace. But if the child scratches the nodules, or they cause him discomfort, then it is recommended to try to remove them at home with various ointments and solutions containing components to eliminate warts (for example, salicylic acid, tretinoin, cantharidin or benzoyl peroxide). These solutions are applied pointwise to the molluscum contagiosum nodules 1 to 2 times a day until they disappear.

    Parents report the effectiveness of Oxolinic Ointment for removing molluscum nodules in children, so this recommendation can also be used. So, parents recommend applying a thick layer of ointment to the nodules 1 to 2 times a day until they completely disappear. At the same time, at first, the nodules under the action of the ointment may turn red and inflame, but this should not be feared, because after 1 to 2 days the formations will become covered with a crust and begin to dry out.

    If it is decided to remove the nodules from the child by any surgical method, then this should be done only with the use of adequate anesthesia. The best anesthetizes the skin and, accordingly, is optimally suited for use as an anesthetic in the surgical removal of nodules of molluscum contagiosum EMLA cream 5% manufactured by AstraZeneka, Sweden. For adequate anesthesia, the cream is applied to the skin in the area of ​​localization of nodules, covered with an occlusive film that comes with the drug, and left for 50-60 minutes. After an hour, the film is removed, the remains of the cream are removed with a sterile cotton swab, and only after that the operation is performed to remove the molluscum contagiosum nodules.

    When using EMLA cream, a good level of pain relief is achieved, as a result of which the child does not feel pain and, accordingly, does not receive additional stress.

    Molluscum contagiosum: causes, treatment, diagnosis and prevention. Removal of itching, inflammation and redness - video

    Treatment at home

    In the best way for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum at home, either pharmacy preparations or various folk remedies are suitable. made independently from medicinal herbs, which are superimposed on the nodules and contribute to their disappearance.

    So, the most effective among folk methods for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum at home are the following:

  • Garlic lotions. Fresh garlic cloves are crushed to a pulp, butter is added in a ratio of 1: 1 (by volume) and mixed well. The finished composition is pointwise applied to the nodules in a thick layer, fixed with a plaster or bandage and the lotion is changed to a fresh one 2-3 times a day. Such applications are applied to the nodules of molluscum contagiosum up to their complete disappearance.
  • Garlic juice. Garlic cloves are passed through a meat grinder, the finished gruel is spread on gauze and the juice is squeezed out. Nodules are rubbed with fresh garlic juice 5-6 times a day until they disappear completely.
  • Infusion of a series. Two tablespoons of dry herb succession pour 250 ml of boiling water (one glass), bring the water to a boil again, remove from heat and insist for an hour in a warm place. With the finished infusion, wipe the skin area on which the nodules of the molluscum contagiosum are localized, 3-4 times a day until the formations disappear.
  • Tincture of calendula. Pharmaceutical alcohol tincture of calendula wipes the skin areas covered with nodules of molluscum contagiosum, 3-4 times a day until the complete disappearance of the formations.
  • Cherry juice. Fresh leaves of bird cherry are washed with water and passed through a meat grinder. The resulting slurry is spread on gauze and the juice is squeezed out of the leaves. The juice of bird cherry leaves is mixed with butter in a ratio of 1: 1 and the resulting ointment is applied to the nodules overnight.

    • Molluscum contagiosum - treatment with folk remedies: iodine, celandine, fukortsin, tar, calendula tincture - video

    Before use, you should consult with a specialist.