Beyond the Skin: Molluscum Contagiosum as a Hidden Culprit in Ocular Surface Disorders
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a DNA virus that infects skin and mucous membranes, resulting in characteristic dome-shaped umbilicated nodules. Infection commonly produces nodules on the skin of the face, abdomen, legs, arms, neck, and genital area.[1] Ocular MC typically results in eyelid nodules, but can affect the conjunctiva through a hypersensitivity reaction leading to a chronic follicular conjunctivitis. [2] We report a case of a 30 year old, young adult male presenting with concurrent dry eye disease (DED), keratoconus, and blepharitis, attributed to periocular MC lesions. A detailed ophthalmic examination and diagnostic workup were performed including slit lamp bio-microscopy, tear lm assessment, corneal topography, and meibography. Conjunctival scraping conrmed MC involvement. Management included antiviral therapy, ocular surface rehabilitation, and mechanical lesion removal. The patient showed marked improvement in symptoms and ocular surface health after 3 months, with reduced inammation, improved tear lm parameters, and stabilized keratoconus. Ocular manifestations of molluscum contagiosum are rare but signicant. Timely diagnosis and management can prevent chronic inammation-related complications such as MGD, DED, and keratoconus.
Author: Haritima Sharma
Institution: Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4410826281