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Can genital molluscum be associated with HIV?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was diagnosed with genital molluscum contagiosum (about a month and a half ago). I am being treated now, and there are a few bumps left (less than 5). When it first appeared, there were eight to nine bumps. I wanted to ask if this had anything to do with the HIV virus. I have almost never been in a relationship without protection. But that still made me worry for a while. Please let me know if I should panic.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Aditi Dhanta

Education:

MD DVL

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aditi Dhanta is a skilled Dermatologist with clinical expertise in Dermatology, Trichology, Cosmetology, and Venereology. She specializes in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, managing acne, pigmentation, hair loss, and sexually transmitted infections. With a focus on both medical and aesthetic dermatology, Dr. Dhanta provides personalized care using advanced techniques to enhance skin health and boost patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Genital molluscum is a viral infection not caused by the HIV virus. It is a sexually transmitted disease and, therefore, usually spreads from a sexual route. Genital molluscum is considered to be a marker of HIV infection. Therefore, it is usually advised to rule out HIV infection in patients of genital molluscum.

As you are having genital molluscum, it does not mean that you are having an HIV infection. If you are practicing safe sexual practices, then chances of HIV infection are minimal, at least not because of the sexual route. But to be on the safe side, I will advise you to rule out HIV infection by doing HIV testing as it is considered in protocol to test for it in case of genital molluscum.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Answered by Dr. Aditi Dhanta

Education:

MD DVL

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aditi Dhanta is a skilled Dermatologist with clinical expertise in Dermatology, Trichology, Cosmetology, and Venereology. She specializes in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, managing acne, pigmentation, hair loss, and sexually transmitted infections. With a focus on both medical and aesthetic dermatology, Dr. Dhanta provides personalized care using advanced techniques to enhance skin health and boost patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If you have any doubt, you can always ask query. You are welcome.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Divya Banu M
Published At June 12, 2020
Reviewed At February 6, 2025

Education:

MD DVL

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aditi Dhanta is a skilled Dermatologist with clinical expertise in Dermatology, Trichology, Cosmetology, and Venereology. She specializes in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, managing acne, pigmentation, hair loss, and sexually transmitted infections. With a focus on both medical and aesthetic dermatology, Dr. Dhanta provides personalized care using advanced techniques to enhance skin health and boost patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Divya Banu M is a dedicated Dental Surgeon with valuable clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of various diseases and conditions affecting the oral cavity. With a gentle and patient-centered approach, she is committed to promoting oral health and enhancing smiles through quality dental care. Her areas of expertise include restorative dentistry, preventive dental care, and cosmetic dental procedures.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD DVL

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aditi Dhanta is a skilled Dermatologist with clinical expertise in Dermatology, Trichology, Cosmetology, and Venereology. She specializes in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, managing acne, pigmentation, hair loss, and sexually transmitted infections. With a focus on both medical and aesthetic dermatology, Dr. Dhanta provides personalized care using advanced techniques to enhance skin health and boost patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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