title: Photodynamic therapy for molluscum contagiosum infection in HIV-coinfected patients: review of 6 patients.
abstract: Molluscum contagiosum, a viral disease of the skin, manifests as a smooth-surfaced, firm, and spherical papule with umbilication of the vertex. It commonly presents as multiple lesions, which may be extensive in immunocompromised patients, and may mimic cutaneous tumors in HIV co-infected patients. Infection usually persists for 6 months to 5 years before resolving naturally. Among immune-impaired persons with HIV infection is generally more persistent. To date, single and combination therapies for such patients have been unsatisfactory. Recent observations from a dermatology practice in which 6 patients with HIV and molluscum contagiosum were treated with 5-aminolevulinic acid (Levulan Kerastick) in conjunction with photodynamic therapy suggest clinical benefits; i.e., substantial reduction in lesional count and severity. Additional research is mandated.
authors.affiliation: Wayne State University, Troy, Michigan, USA. AMoiin@aol.com
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Moiin
mesh_terms: D017088:AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D000328:Adult; D000622:Aminolevulinic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections; D006801:Humans; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008976:Molluscum Contagiosum / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D017319:Photosensitizing Agents; D000622:Aminolevulinic Acid