Eyelid Molluscum Contagiosum: A Sign of Advanced HIV Infection

Cureus. 2024 Feb 7;16(2):e53783. doi: 10.7759/cureus.53783. eCollection 2024 Feb.

Abstract

HIV infection can present with dermatologic pathologies, and molluscum contagiosum in the eyelid is a specific sign often related to advanced HIV. Herein, we present the case of an adult patient with eyelid molluscum contagiosum that had been present for the last five years. Despite previous healthcare evaluation, the patient was not tested for HIV infection until presenting to our healthcare facility. The patient was diagnosed with AIDS. Our case highlights the importance of recognizing indirect signs of immunosuppression and the need to promptly order an HIV test. Additionally, we want to emphasize the importance of raising awareness about routine HIV testing, aiming to reduce the social stigma surrounding this test.

Keywords: aids-defining illness; delayed diagnosis; hiv and aids; hiv-associated neurocognitive disorders; molluscum contagiosum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports