Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection in children, often treated through invasive methods such as cryotherapy or curettage, which can be painful and lead to scarring. This study investigates the efficacy of oral ranitidine, with immunomodulatory properties, as a non‐invasive treatment option for pediatric patients with molluscum contagiosum. To assess the effectiveness of oral ranitidine in reducing lesion size and promoting lesion clearance in children diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum over an 8‐week treatment period. A cohort of pediatric patients, aged <18 years, received oral ranitidine daily for 8 weeks. The number, size and distribution of lesions were recorded at 2‐week intervals. Treatment outcomes were categorized as full resolution, partial reduction, or no improvement. Most patients demonstrated significant lesion reduction, with 60% achieving full resolution by week 8. Younger patients showed quicker improvement, with visible changes noted as early as week 4. However, two patients showed no response to treatment. The treatment was well‐tolerated, with no reported side effects or complications. Oral ranitidine appears to be a safe, effective and non‐invasive alternative for treating molluscum contagiosum in children, offering a less distressing option compared to traditional therapies. Further studies with larger sample sizes and long‐term follow‐ups are needed to confirm its efficacy and explore its potential as a standard treatment.
Megha Sharma and Prashant Kumar Yadav. Role of Oral Ranitidine in Children Having Molluscum Contagiosum.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makijtm.2024.80.85
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1816-3319/10.36478/makijtm.2024.80.85