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Molluscum contagiosum - Anogenital in
See also in: Overview,External and Internal Eye
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Molluscum contagiosum - Anogenital in

See also in: Overview,External and Internal Eye
Contributors: Rajini Murthy MD, Sabrina Nurmohamed MD, Susan Burgin MD, Lowell A. Goldsmith MD, MPH, Benjamin K. Fisher MD
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

This summary discusses adult patients. Molluscum contagiosum in children is addressed separately.

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by a DNA poxvirus. It manifests as smooth, firm papules with a central umbilication. Genital lesions are most commonly spread by sexual contact, and papules are most commonly seen on the shaft of the penis. However, lesions may also be found on the scrotum, in the pubic area, and on the inner aspect of the thighs.

Molluscum contagiosum may also be spread by direct contact (most often in children) and autoinoculation (ie, shaving). Infections have also been associated with swimming pool facilities via fomites.

Many cases are asymptomatic, but there can be surrounding irritation and pruritus. In the immunocompetent host, the disease tends to be self-limited, but papules may persist for several months and up to 2 years before disappearing.

In cases of underlying immunodeficiency, such as HIV disease, molluscum may be widespread or large, atypical papules and/or plaques may be seen.

Codes

ICD10CM:
B08.1 – Molluscum contagiosum

SNOMEDCT:
40070004 – Molluscum contagiosum

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Last Reviewed:05/05/2021
Last Updated:05/05/2021
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Molluscum contagiosum - Anogenital in
See also in: Overview,External and Internal Eye
A medical illustration showing key findings of Molluscum contagiosum : Female genital, Male genital, Scattered few, Suprapubic/mons pubis, Umbilicated papule
Clinical image of Molluscum contagiosum - imageId=514304. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'A close-up of a cluster of umbilicated pink papules.'
A close-up of a cluster of umbilicated pink papules.
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