Acute ulceronecrotic adverse reaction to potassium hydroxide 5% solution in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum

Pediatr Dermatol. 2020 Jan;37(1):224-225. doi: 10.1111/pde.14015. Epub 2019 Oct 18.

Abstract

Molluscum contagiosum is a common childhood condition, and although it is self-limited, treatments are often prescribed. Several medications are available, but there is no consensus regarding the optimal choice in the pediatric population. We report a child who underwent potassium hydroxide 5% treatment resulting in superficial diffuse erosions caused by the inappropriate application. This underlines the importance of parent education before use of this medication with well-known caustic properties.

Keywords: drug reaction; infection-viral; therapy-topical.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Antiviral Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antiviral Agents / adverse effects*
  • Back
  • Child, Preschool
  • Dermatologic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Dermatologic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxides / administration & dosage
  • Hydroxides / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence
  • Molluscum Contagiosum / drug therapy*
  • Neck
  • Necrosis
  • Potassium Compounds / administration & dosage
  • Potassium Compounds / adverse effects*
  • Shoulder
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Ulcer / chemically induced*
  • Solutions / administration & dosage
  • Solutions / adverse effects
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Hydroxides
  • Potassium Compounds
  • Solutions
  • potassium hydroxide