Unusual Presentations of Molluscum Contagiosum

Abstract

Background: Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection. Unusual presentations of this condition among immunocompetent individuals have rarely been reported. Objective: To highlight atypical clinical presentations of molluscum contagiosum in immunocompetent individuals. Methods and Results: An analysis of all cases of molluscum contagiosum with unusual presentation seen over a period of 2 years in the Farwaniya Department of Dermatology was conducted. Four patients (two males, two females), aged 13 to 35 years, with atypical molluscum contagiosum were encountered. Diagnosis was confirmed histopathologically. All of them were healthy, immunocompetent individuals without any underlying skin condition, except one who had preceding hand dermatitis. Clinical clues that could be helpful in making a diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum with an atypical presentation were looked for. Conclusion: A histopathologic examination may be necessary to make the diagnosis.