Molluscum contagiosum - Diagnosing molluscum contagiosum
- Introduction
- Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum
- Diagnosing molluscum contagiosum
- Treating molluscum contagiosum
- Complications of molluscum contagiosum
- Prevention
The spots caused by molluscum contagiosum (MC) are usually easy to recognise.
Your GP should be able to diagnose the condition without carrying out further tests.
Confirming a diagnosis
If your GP thinks that the infection may be caused by something other than MC, they may want to carry out some tests.
For example, they may take a sample from one of the spots to test it for the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). This is known as a skin biopsy.
If you have spots on your genitals, your GP may refer you to a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic to be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you prefer, you can go to an STI clinic directly. Consultation is confidential and free.
Referral to a specialist
Your GP may refer you to a specialist if:
- you have HIV and your symptoms are severe
- you have a weakened immune system for another reason – such as receiving chemotherapy
- you have spots on your eyelids or near your eye, and/or your eye is red or painful
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