Molluscum Contagiosum-Part-III

COMPLICATIONS IN MOLLUSCUM CONTAGIOSUM
Molluscum contagiosum normally gets cleared on its own and it rarely causes complications however there are certain category of persons who carry a high risk of developing further complications in molluscum contagiosum and include persons whose immune system is week or is damaged, persons who are having diseases which require long treatment such as persons having cancer and receiving chemotherapy or HIV positive. People who are on medication like corticosteroids that suppresses the immune system also carry the risk of developing further complications. Signs of complications include cases where the size of mollusca gets increased significantly and similarly if the numbers of mollusca also increases significantly as a result they start spreading across the entire body, then it requires further investigation.
In some cases infection can enter the spots and this probability is high in case of atopic eczema (an allergy causing skin irritation) or with a weak immune system. Antibiotics should be taken to cure the infection. So in case of Eczema, scratching should be avoided as it may lead to virus spreading to other areas resulting in delaying the healing process.
There is a possibility that small scars or tiny patches may be left after the molluscum contagiosum has cleared and healed. The possibility of scarring increases where treatments have been taken for curing molluscum contagiosum and in case of areas of the skin containing more fatty tissues for example thighs etc.
If molluscum contagiosum occurs near the eyes, secondary infection of the eye is possible like keratitis or conjunctivitis. When the conjunctiva the inner thin layer of the eyelids is affected it is called conjunctivitis. Eyes become swollen, red and watery and near the eyelids or eyelashes formation of a sticky coating may take place. In Keratitis the affected area instead of conjunctiva it is cornea ( layer of cells which is transparent which covers the surface of the eyes). It will lead to vision getting blurred, sensitivity to light and pain in the eyes.
In both the cases the eye specialist should be consulted.
MOLLUSCUM CONTAGIOSUM’S PREVENTION
Though molluscum contagiosum does not cause serious condition and many persons are naturally resistant to molluscum contagiosum however as it is highly infectious it is sensible to try not spreading MCV as far as possible which include the following
The area of the skin which is affected should be covered as far as possible
Do not share cloths, towels or flannels with others
Do not share baths
Do not scratch the mollusca or the spots even if they are itchy as this will result in MCV infecting other parts of the skin resulting in delaying the healing process
In case of molusca on the genitals further test for possibility of STI’s should be taken. Also use a condom in case of having sexual intercourse, however condoms cannot stop completely the spreading of MCV as there is always a possibility of other area of the skin coming in contact which is not covered by the condom.