Treatment of periorbital Molluscum contagiosum by incision and curettage.

Molluscum contagiosum, caused by a double-stranded DNA virus, is found world-wide, affecting humans as well as other primates and marsupials. In humans, a biphasic incidence occurs with peak infection rates among young children and young adults. In children, infection is spread by direct contact or through fomites, with lesions predominating on the trunk, extremities, and face. In young adults, this disease is spread primarily through sexual contact. Periocular infection can cause secondary chronic follicular conjunctivitis, superficial keratitis, and punctal occlusion. Although many modes of therapy are effective in destruction of the virus, some may have significant side effects when used in the periocular area. We describe treatment by incision and curettage, which we recommend as a simple, effective method of managing this problem.