Molluscum Contagiosum of the Nipple: A Case Report

Purpose: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral skin and mucosal dermatosis caused by molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It predominantly affects children, sexually active adults, and immunocompromised patients. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected skin or autoinoculation and via contaminated objects. These lesions can appear in any part of the body and are presented as firm, round, non-tender, dome-shaped papules with sunken centres containing a white, curdy-type material. Although generally MC is self-limiting and benign, its occurrence on the nipple-areola complex is exceedingly rare, documenting less than 6 cases worldwide. Methods: We report a rare case of dermatosis of the nipple in a healthy 31-year-old female who presented with a 3-month, solitary, non-tender lesion on her right breast, with no similar lesions observed elsewhere on the body. She was referred to the plastic surgery department for further evaluation of breast carcinoma. Results: Upon recommendation, the lesion was excised and sent for histopathological examination, which confirmed the diagnosis of MC. Conclusions: Diagnosis of MC of the nipple is rare and often poses a clinical dilemma in treatment.