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Molluscum contagiosum: a neglected sentinel infection
K W Radcliffe1, D Daniels, B A Evans
1Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK.
International Journal of STD & AIDS
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Perigenital molluscum contagiosum in adults is a sexually transmitted infection. Screening for other sexually transmitted diseases (STD) is recommended for patients diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Perigenital molluscum contagiosum is recognized as a sexually transmitted infection in adults.
- Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) clinics manage patients with molluscum contagiosum and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of co-existent sexually transmitted diseases (STD) in adults diagnosed with perigenital molluscum contagiosum.
- To assess the necessity of screening and contact tracing for STD in patients with molluscum contagiosum.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective casenote review of patients diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum at a GUM clinic.
- Analysis of co-existent STD diagnoses in male and female patients.
Main Results:
- 30.4% of men and 32.1% of women with molluscum contagiosum had one or more concurrent STD.
- Even when molluscum contagiosum was the sole presenting symptom, STD rates were high: 23.2% in men and 10.5% in women.
- The study suggests current screening may not be comprehensive, implying higher actual STD rates.
Conclusions:
- Adults diagnosed with perigenital molluscum contagiosum should be screened for other STD.
- Contact tracing for sexual partners of individuals with molluscum contagiosum is advised.
- Referral to a Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) department is typically required for comprehensive management.