Molluscum Contagiosum (957)

Molluscum is a benign viral skin infection that is caused by a DNA pox virus.
It commonly occurs in one of three settings:

Acquired through direct close physical contact or fomites, or through contact with
contaminated objects e.g. towels, bedding. The incubation period can vary between
7 days and 6 months. Can affect adults, but 90% of cases presenting to GPs are in
those under 15 years. Typically, the face, neck, trunk and/or limbs are affected

Acquired as an STI through sexual contact, usually in young adults. Lesions typically
affect the genitals, pubis, lower abdomen, upper thighs and/or buttocks

Severe Molluscum infection in immunocompromised states can be significantly more
aggressive and widespread, presenting with 100 or more lesions in one individual
and progressing as confluent, coalescing plaques. Notably seen in late-stage HIV
disease.