Molluscum Contagiosum Complications

[St. Even]

I am 23 and my wife and I both have Molluscum Contagiosum. Her on her genitalia and me on my abdomen and genitals. I am aware that it is supposed to go away on its own and I have accepted that, but here is my problem. I have an inguinal hernia that desparately need to be repaired. That means cutting me open in an area that is infected by MCV. Could there be any complications such as a higher risk of a bacterial infection or anything of the sort due to the presence of the virus? Also, I'm not immunocompromised, but I have had the flu in the past couple of months and my immune system is not as good as it should be. (the molluscum came around that time.) That could explain the amount of lesions I have on my abdomen (around 30).  Also, I have ordered something called virucide off the internet.  Have you heard of it?  At this point I'm willing to try any topical treatment to get rid of the lesions. Thank you.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Yes, freezing is safe.  No, catching it on the face is rare.  In fact, despite the name "contagiosum" , catching it at all is rare--nearly all my patients don't have partners who have or had it, and kids get it all the time, even though no one else at home does.

Dr. Rockoff

[faerie]

i was recently diagnosed as having molluscum contagiosum in my genital area. i was told by the dermatologist that the only way for adults to get it is through sexual contact. however my partner, which is the only partner i have had for 7 months, has nothing. i am wondering if it can be transmitted through inanimate objects, like toilet seats. i would appreciate anyone's comments on this bizarre experience. thanks!

[dermagal5]

Dr. Rockoff,
You are one of the few doctors who say that molluscum is not as infectious as the name implies.  You even say that most people who have it don't infect someone else.  Most of the literature says that the only way adults can "get it" is from having sex with an infected partner.  Please comment again on this.  Thanks.

[derma52]

If you have read any of my mail, you will know that I also have had molluscum...what a nightmare.  Just wanted to tell you that freezing and acid were the BEST treatments.  I have had it in several areas, and also tried Aldara ointment, but freezing or acid did a much better, AND quicker job.  Good luck to you and your wife...I can feel your despair.

[St. Even]

Thank you for your help.  You've been wonderful.  Let the freezing begin!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Amen!

Dr. R

[St. Even]

Thank you very much for your advice.  Is freezing safe for the downstairs area?  (my wife wants to know).  Also, is it common for men to get molluscum on their face if they've (I've) performed oral sex on their partner (wife).  Hypothetically speaking, of course.  (it's me, shhh.)

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

There is no risk of cutting through molluscum, which cannot affect any tissue but the epidermis.  Having said that, I don't see why you need to wait for them to go away, which is the course of action I recommend for kids.  Why not have the doctor freeze them off with liquid nitrogen?  It's not that uncomfortable, it doesn't scar, and one or two sessions usually do the job.  But there's no need to postpone surgery.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff