Cantharidin Use Among Pediatric Dermatologists in the Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum Jacquelyn Coloe, B.S.,* and Dean S. Morrell, M.D.  *The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus Ohio,  Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina Abstract: Cantharidin is cited often in the dermatology and pediatric literature as a valuable treatment option for molluscum contagiosum (MC). However, there have been no prospective, randomized, vehicle-controlled trials that have been able to quantify cantharidin’s efficacy in MC. The pur- pose of this study was to determine the breadth of usage of cantharidin, most frequently used protocols, and common side effects seen with use of cantharidin. An eighteen question survey was administered to the Society of Pediatric Dermatology. The survey sought to evaluate treatments used in MC and experiences with cantharidin including: protocol, side effects, specific products used, and satisfaction with cantharidin. A total of 300 surveys were distributed via email, 101 surveys were initiated, and 95 (94%) of these were completed. Cantharidin, imiquimod, benign neglect, curettage, cryotherapy, and retinoids were the most common approaches to pediatric MC reported by respondents. Ninety-two percent of respondents reported satisfaction with cantharidin’s efficacy, but 79% reported side effects, with discom- fort ⁄ pain and blistering being the most common. Cantharidin is a common modality in the treatment of MC among pediatric dermatologists. While efficacy data is still lacking, subjective satisfaction with cantharidin is reported. Cantharidin remains a viable treatment option for children with MC. Many general pediatricians and pediatric dermatolo- gists have encountered the dilemma of how to best deal with children (and parents of children) who suffer from molluscum contagiosum (MC). Molluscum contagio- sum can spread through close skin-to-skin contact, and many patients autoinoculate themselves, making MC a dynamic disease. Molluscum contagiosum infection can last anywhere from several months to 4 years (1). Though self-limited and not life-threatening, molluscum lesions can be symptomatic, unsightly, and quite embarrassing. Parents sometimes seek treatment to decrease symptoms and ⁄ or improve the cosmetic appearance. There is large debate about the standard of care and optimal treatment for MC. Because it is a self-limited disease, treatment options for MC attempt to minimize Address correspondence to Dean S. Morrell, M.D., Depart- ment of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, 3100 Thur- ston-Bowles Bldg CB#7287, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7287, or e-mail: morrell@med.unc.edu. DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1470.2008.00860.x Ó 2009 The Authors. Journal compilation Ó 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 405 Pediatric Dermatology Vol. 26 No. 4 405–408, 2009