Extensive chemical burns in a child from misuse of cantharidin: a case report

Abstract

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common childhood mucocutaneous viral infection characterized by small, discrete, domeshaped, umbilicated papule(s) [1]. It is caused by the MC virus, in the Poxviridae Molluscipox genus. The epidermis is commonly inoculated at sites of impaired skin barrier function from direct minor trauma, such as from scratching or shaving [2]. The disease predominantly affects immunocompetent children, but can be more extensive in the setting of immunosuppression. In adults, it is often sexually transmitted and immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible, most notably in the setting of human immunodeficiency virus infection. Reported prevalence of the disease varies widely across the literature. It is estimated that MC virus affects approximately 4.6% of children in the United States and its incidence has been rising since the 1960s [1].In immunocompetent children, MC is benign and self-resolves within a few months to years without active treatment. At times, the lesions can be widespread, distressing to the patient-particularly when present on the face-and may be associated with a molluscum dermatitis, potentially exacerbating underlying atopic dermatitis. Following an inflammatory host immune response to virally infected lesions, patients can also develop an id reaction-like eruption of erythematous, pruritic papules on the extensors. Such symptomatic scenarios often warrant active treatment despite the benign and self-limiting nature of the poxvirus infection. When deciding on a treatment plan, patient preference along with the risks and benefits of each treatment option must be considered [1]. Treatment of MC is usually well tolerated and can effectively alleviate symptoms, limit spread, clear the infection, improve cosmetic appearance, reduce patient distress, prevent secondary bacterial infections, and help control underlying atopic dermatitis [3].There are many different treatment options for MC, including Keywords: Cantharidin; Canthacur; Molluscum Contagiosum; Chemical Burn; Adverse Effect Le molluscum contagiosum (MC) est une infection virale généralement bénigne et spontanément résolutive affectant la peau. L'application de cantharidine dans un cabinet de médecin est une option thérapeutique sécuritaire, efficace et couramment utilisée pour traiter le MC. Toutefois, son mauvais usage peut entraîner des effets indésirables rares, mais importants. Cette étude de cas décrit l'incident malheureux d'un enfant ayant développé une brûlure chimique sévère en réponse à un mauvais usage de Canthacur-PS, qui contient de la cantharidine 1 %, de la podophylline et de l'acide salicylique, pour le traitement du MC. En outre, elle met en évidence l'importance pour les médecins de bien connaître cette infection au poxvirus, les indications de traitement du MC chez les enfants immunocompétents, et les options de traitement disponibles, incluant l'administration sécuritaire et les complications possibles de la cantharidine. Chez les enfants, la cantharidine peut facilement être appliquée aux lé...

Comparative effects of cantharidin and endothall on gene expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes in Cichorium intybus L.

“…Phosphatases are involved in various cellular functions through phosphorylation-dephosphorylation and are responsible for conducting phosphorylation-dependent signals. The other mechanisms in this regard include activating apoptosis and blocking all the apoptosis inhibitors (Ward et al, 2017). In addition, PPTs control several plant cell functions, such as pathway crosstalk, light perception, response to pathogens, and hormonal functions (Ward et al, 2017a;Rikin & Rubin, 1993).…”