Poxvirus

Dear Dr. Jen,

My daughter has had pinkish and white bumps on her chin which later spread to her neck.  We’ve tried to let her have a facial to remove it but we were told we had to go see a doctor for it.  Sometimes it falls off by itself and then some new white bumps appear.  Should I be worried?

Elly

Dear Elly,

Pinkish and whitish bumps on the skin of children that aren’t whiteheads are probably a viral infection called molluscumcontagiosum. This is caused by a virus in the poxvirus family. It spreads and infects other people by sharing of clothing, towels and is often found among school-aged children.

Like other viruses, it can disappear by itself.  However, removal of the molluscum is oftentimes advisable for a quick resolution and prevention of transfer to other members of the school and household.

There are multiple painless and quick methods to go about treatment. While curettage or cryosurgery are fast enough, laser can also be performed.  In some cases where the immune system is compromised, acidic solutions applied over a period of a few weeks can also be utilized.  However, using (trichloroacetic acid or salicylic acid) chemicals runs the risk of producing stinging over a prolonged period and may accidentally burn the normal skin surrounding the molluscum.  Go to your nearest PDS dermatologist to have it removed the soonest.

Dear Dr. Jen,

Something fell on my toe, and half the toe got torn off.  It’s very painful to wear closed shoes but I need to wear it at work, so I’m on a leave now.  How long will it take for the nail to grow back?  And when will it start getting comfortable to wear closed shoes again?

Fran

Dear Fran,

Toe nails generally take about 12 months to grow from the base of the cuticle to the top of the toe. Since only half your toenail needs to re-grow, about six months will be needed to make it look normal again.  It is just a waiting game.  Good diet with complete vitamins and minerals can ensure that it will grow optimally. In the meantime, you can do normal saline solution compress or Epsom salt compress to help reduce the inflammation.  Application of antibiotic ointments on the affected area will prevent infection.

Unless you have a difficult time standing and walking, you can actually request for an excuse letter or medical certificate from your doctor so you can report to work wearing open-footed shoes for a few days. Once the inflammation has subsided (in 2 to 5 days), you can go back to wearing your regular shoes again.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan