STD awareness: Molluscum contagiosum
MOLLUSCUM contagiosum is a pox virus that causes a chronic skin infection. The result of the infection is usually a non-cancerous, mild skin disease characterised by lesions that may appear anywhere on the body, but mostly on the face, neck, arms, legs, abdomen and genital area alone or in groups.
Obstetrician gynaecologist (ObGyn) Dr Jordan Hardie says the disease is spread by direct contact which may occur during sexual intercourse, and affects sexually active individuals, children, and individuals who may have HIV.
“The lesions, which have a pearly appearance, are small, raised, and usually white, pink, or flesh-coloured with a dimple or pit in the centre. They’re usually smooth and firm with a depression in the centre. They may be on the genital region and groin area. Patients may also notice these lesions on the upper torso, the armpits, elbows and behind the knees. They may become itchy, sore, red, and/or swollen,” Dr Hardie said.
Molluscum can spread from one person to another by sexual contact. Many, but not all, cases of molluscum in adults are caused by sexual contact.
According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, those at increased risk for getting the disease include:
1. People with weakened immune systems (that is, HIV-infected persons or persons being treated for cancer). Their growths may look different, be larger, and be more difficult to treat.
2. Atopic dermatitis may also be a risk factor for getting molluscum contagiosum due to frequent breaks in the skin. People with this condition may also be more likely to spread molluscum contagiosum to other parts of their bodies for the same reason.
3. People who live in warm, humid climates where living conditions are crowded.
Dr Hardie said the rash will resolve in most patients within two months. However, he said in some patients, the lesions may persist and those patients will require treatment. “Treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing them off), curettage (manual removal) and applying a blistering cream,” he said.
— Kimberley Hibbert
