Oral Ranitidine as an Immunomodulatory Agent in the Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum: A Pediatric Case Report

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral skin infection seen predominantly in children. While usually self-limiting, concerns over transmissibility and cosmesis often prompt active treatment. Traditional methods such as curettage, cryotherapy, and chemical agents may cause pain or scarring, limiting their use in young children. This case report highlights the successful treatment of MC with oral ranitidine, an H2-receptor antagonist known for its immunomodulatory properties. A six-year-old girl with multiple umbilicated papules on both buttocks achieved complete lesion clearance after eight weeks of oral ranitidine therapy at 5 mg/kg/day. No recurrence was observed over a six-month follow-up. Given its favorable safety profile and immunostimulatory potential, ranitidine may represent a viable, non-invasive therapeutic option for extensive or recurrent MC in immunocompetent pediatric patients.