Molluscum contagiosum survey - common approach and attitude towards treatment and research in Dutch general practice

Abstract

Background: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) can cause significant burden in children. So far, pharmacological treatment has not been proven beneficial. More rigorous interventions have not been well studied. Current guidelines advise a "wait and see" policy. However, children and their parents frequently visit their GP requesting intervention. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gain insight into the approach to MC by GPs and parents' expectations and to investigate willingness to participate in an interventional study.

Methods: A survey study was carried out among GPs and parents using a questionnaire for each group inquiring about MC and potential study participation. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze results and logistical regression to investigate factors influencing participation.

Results: The majority of GPs (88%) preferred an expectative approach; only 21% were willing to participate in a trial as proposed. GPs estimating ≥ 50% of parents would request treatment, were more likely to participate. Most responding parents did or would visit their GP requesting treatment. In contrast to GPs, 58% were willing to participate. Parents preferring cryotherapy or curettage were more likely to participate.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that the majority of GPs preferred a conservative approach, adhering to current guidelines. However, most parents preferred treatment to resolve MC and symptoms. Parents' willingness to participate was much higher than GP's, reflecting parents' desire for treatment. These findings underscore the need for continued therapeutic research. Careful preparation and selection of GPs and patients will be essential to ensure the feasibility of such an endeavor.

Trial registration: This survey study was not part of a clinical trial.

Keywords: General practice; Molluscum contagiosum; Survey; Treatment.

Fig. 1

Flow-chart for survey response