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Molluscum contagiosum - Management
When should I refer a person with molluscum contagiosum?
- For people who are HIV-positive with extensive lesions, refer urgently to a HIV specialist.
- For people with eyelid-margin or ocular lesions and associated red eye, refer urgently to an ophthalmologist.
- Refer adults with anogenital lesions to genito-urinary medicine, for screening for other sexually transmitted infections. In children, lesions are commonly seen in anogenital areas, but referral for suspected sexual abuse should only be arranged if there is other evidence to suggest this.
- Consider referring to a dermatologist if:
- There is diagnostic uncertainty.
- The person is known to be immunocompromised.
- Lesions are extensive and painful (although inflamed lesions may indicate resolution).
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