Epidemiologic and Clinical Evaluation of the Bidirectional Link Between Molluscum Contagiosum and Atopic Dermatitis

Anna Lyakhovitsky1, Avner Shemer1, Eran Galili1

  • 1Drs. Anna Lyakhovitsky, Shemer, Galili, and Kassem are from the Department of Dermatology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-HaShomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel. Drs. Anna Lyakhovitsky, Shemer, Galili and Kassem also are from and Dr. Magal is from the Gray School of Medical Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Israel. Drs. Hermush and Kaplan are from the Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Israel. Dr. Hermush also is from the Laniado Medical Center, Natania, Israel. Dr. Daniel is from the Department of Dermatology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, and the Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Keren Lyakhovitsky is from the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel.

Cutis
|November 3, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Children with atopic dermatitis (AD) have a higher risk of molluscum contagiosum (MC). This study confirms a strong link between these conditions in pediatric patients, guiding clinical practice.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Atopic dermatitis (AD) is known to increase susceptibility to infections.
  • Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral infection in children.
  • Limited data exist on the specific relationship between AD and MC in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the correlation between atopic dermatitis and molluscum contagiosum in children.
  • To analyze clinical manifestations and disease duration in pediatric patients with MC and/or AD.
  • To provide evidence supporting the clinical recognition of the AD-MC association.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study design.
  • Analysis of medical records of pediatric patients.
  • Data collection from September 2013 to August 2022.
  • Inclusion criteria: diagnosis of MC, AD, or both.

Main Results:

  • A significant correlation was found between molluscum contagiosum and atopic dermatitis in children.
  • Demographic and clinical data were analyzed to understand disease patterns.
  • Findings emphasize the increased prevalence and potential severity of MC in children with AD.

Conclusions:

  • Healthcare professionals must acknowledge the heightened risk of MC in children with AD.
  • Proactive management strategies are needed to optimize care for pediatric patients with both conditions.
  • Further research may elucidate specific immunological factors contributing to this association.