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Should I get tested for more infections after finding molluscum contagiosum?
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Sexual Health & Wellness
Question #27035
14 days ago
78

Should I get tested for more infections after finding molluscum contagiosum? - #27035

Client_2cd686

I have molluscum contagiosum near my pubic area. My last sexual activity was 6 months ago. I got my blood tests done, and the results are mentioned below. Apart from these tests, should I get tested for any other infections because of the molluscum? Are these test results conclusive for STIs after 6 months, or do I need to repeat them again? HIV (4th Gen Ag/Ab Combo) Result: 0.190 (Non-Reactive) Reference: <1.00 = Non-Reactive HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen) Result: 0.270 (Non-Reactive) Reference: <1.00 = Non-Reactive Anti-HCV (Hepatitis C Antibody) Result: 0.100 (Non-Reactive) Reference: <1.00 = Non-Reactive Syphilis Antibody Result: Non-Reactive Total WBC Count: 6560 cells/cumm (Normal range: 4000–10000) Differential Count: Neutrophils: 65.10% (40–70%) Lymphocytes: 28.10% (20–45%) Eosinophils: 1.70% (1–7%) Monocytes: 5.00% (2–7%) Basophils: 0.10% (0–1%) Hemoglobin: 17.1 g/dL (Reference: 13.0–17.0) PCV: 49.8% (40–54%) RBC Count: 5.70 million/cu mm (4.5–5.5) MCV: 87.4 fL (83–101) MCH: 30.0 (27–32) MCHC: 34.4 (31.5–34.5) Platelet Count: 232,000 cells/cumm (150,000–410,000) Random Blood Glucose: 86.80 mg/dL (80–120) THYROID PROFILE T3: 1.30 ng/ml (0.80–2.00) T4: 8.95 µg/dl (5.10–14.10) TSH: 3.000 µIU/ml (0.270–5.350) URINE ROUTINE Colour: Yellow Specific Gravity: 1.015 (Ref: 1.016–1.022) pH: 5.0 (4.8–7.4) Protein: Not Present Glucose: Not Present Bilirubin: Not Present Urobilinogen: Normal Ketones: Not Present Nitrites: Negative Leucocytes: 2–3 /hpf RBCs: Not Present Epithelial Cells: 1–2 /hpf Casts: Not Present Crystals: Calcium Oxalate Present

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
14 days ago
5

Hello

No — with negative HIV (4th gen), hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis tests 6 months after your last exposure, those results are considered conclusive. You do not need to repeat them if there has been no new risk.

Molluscum contagiosum itself does not automatically mean another STI is present. It can spread through skin contact alone.

Optional (not mandatory) screening — only if never done or if you want full coverage: •Chlamydia and gonorrhea (urine PCR test) •Hepatitis B immunity check (anti-HBs) if vaccination status unknown

Otherwise, based on your history and timing, no further STI testing is required unless new partners or symptoms appear.

I trust this helps Thank you Take care

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Dr. Alan Reji
I'm Dr. Alan Reji, a general dentist with a deep-rooted passion for helping people achieve lasting oral health while making dental visits feel less intimidating. I graduated from Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences (batch of 2018), and ever since, I've been committed to offering high-quality care that balances both advanced clinical knowledge and genuine compassion for my patients. Starting Dent To Smile here in Palakkad wasn’t just about opening a clinic—it was really about creating a space where people feel relaxed the moment they walk in. Dental care can feel cold or overly clinical, and I’ve always wanted to change that. So I focused on making it warm, easygoing, and centered completely around you. I mix new-age tech with some good old-fashioned values—really listening, explaining stuff without jargon, and making sure you feel involved, not just treated. From regular cleanings to fillings or even cosmetic work, I try my best to keep things smooth and stress-free. No hidden steps. No last-minute surprises. I have a strong interest in patient education and preventive dentistry. I genuinely believe most dental issues can be caught early—or even avoided—when patients are given the right information at the right time. That’s why I take time to talk, not just treat. Helping people understand why something’s happening is as important to me as treating what’s happening. At my practice, I’ve made it a point to stay current with the latest innovations—digital diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, and smart scheduling that respects people’s time. I also try to make my services accessible and affordable, because good dental care shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone.
13 days ago
5

Your test results for HIV (4th generation), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis are non-reactive, and since they were done 6 months after the last sexual exposure, they are generally considered reliable and conclusive for these infections. Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a pox virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, and it does not necessarily mean you have another STI, though doctors sometimes also screen for chlamydia and gonorrhea depending on risk factors. Consult a Dermatologist or Sexual Health specialist for treatment of the molluscum lesions and to decide if any additional STI screening (such as chlamydia/gonorrhea testing) is needed.

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Dr. Nirav Jain
I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.
9 days ago
5

Hello, I understand your worry. First, regarding Molluscum Contagiosum: this is a viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus. It can spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact, but it is not classified as a typical sexually transmitted infection like HIV or syphilis. Many people acquire it through simple skin contact, shaving, or contaminated surfaces.

Your tests for HIV, Hepatitis and Syphilis are non-reactive, which is reassuring.

Since your last sexual exposure was 6 months ago, these results are generally considered conclusive for these infections. Repeat testing is not necessary unless you have had new exposures since then.

You can get screening tests done for Chlamydia & Gonorrhea. These are usually tested with a urine test or swab. If you have no symptoms (burning urination, discharge, pelvic/testicular pain), additional testing may not always be required, but it can be done for reassurance.

About the rest of your tests- Your blood counts, thyroid profile, and blood sugar appear within normal limits. The calcium oxalate crystals in urine can sometimes occur with dehydration or diet and are not directly related to molluscum.

For Molluscum- Avoid shaving or scratching the lesions. Do not squeeze or pick them. Avoid sexual contact until lesions heal to reduce transmission. Lesions often resolve on their own over several months, but treatments like cryotherapy or topical therapy can speed removal if needed.

Seek medical care if: Lesions spread rapidly or become painful. You develop signs of another infection. The lesions do not improve after several months.

Overall, based on the information you shared, your STI screening after 6 months is reassuring, and no routine repeat testing is usually needed unless there has been new risk exposure.

Feel free to reach out again.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine

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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
14 days ago
5

Hello dear See as per clinical history the test are conclusive However there are less chances of std as per current tests. So ideally for molloscum contagium no further test are required. However in case of any Recent transfusion Sexual activity Blood infection or vaccination history Then there may be requirement of Naat test for chlamydia or syphilis Regards

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
14 days ago
5

Hello Thanks for sharing your test results and concerns. Let’s break it down:

### 1. Molluscum Contagiosum and Testing for Other Infections: - Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. However, it is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the same way as others like HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis. - Your current blood tests for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis are all non-reactive, which is a good sign. These results are generally considered conclusive for STIs after 6 months, especially if you have had no further sexual activity since then.

### 2. Should You Get Tested for Other Infections? - If you have no other symptoms and your sexual history is limited to 6 months ago, you may not need additional STI testing specifically related to molluscum contagiosum. - However, if you have concerns about other STIs or if you had unprotected sexual contact with new partners, it might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether additional tests (like for chlamydia or gonorrhea) are necessary.

### 3. Conclusive Test Results: - Your test results are conclusive for the infections tested, given the time frame of 6 months. If you have no new risk factors or symptoms, you likely do not need to repeat these tests.

### Final Thoughts: - If the molluscum lesions are bothersome or not resolving, consider consulting a dermatologist for treatment options. - Always feel free to discuss any new symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice based on your health history.

Thank you

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Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
14 days ago
5

Based on your history and reports, your situation is reassuring. Molluscum contagiosum is a localized viral skin infection that spreads by skin-to-skin contact (including sexual contact in the pubic area), but it is not a marker of serious systemic STIs like HIV or hepatitis. Your tests — HIV infection 4th-gen Ag/Ab, Hepatitis B (HBsAg), Hepatitis C (Anti-HCV), and Syphilis antibody — are all non-reactive, and since your last sexual exposure was 6 months ago, these results are conclusive and reliable (well beyond the window period), so you do not need to repeat them unless you have new exposure. Additional STI testing is not routinely required unless you have symptoms like discharge, burning urination, ulcers, or new partners. Molluscum usually clears on its own in months but can be treated locally (cryotherapy, cautery, or topical therapy) if persistent. In summary, your STI screening is complete and reassuring, no further infection tests are needed now, and you can focus only on treating the molluscum lesions if they bother you.

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Based on your test results, you seem to have a comprehensive screening for common sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and all results are non-reactive, which is reassuring. Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin and is not officially classified as an STI, though it can be transmitted sexually. While it primarily spreads through direct skin contact, in adults, it’s sometimes considered an STI due to its frequent occurrence in areas covered by underwear.

Considering the 6-month gap since your last sexual activity, the detection window for all major STIs you tested for (HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis) should have been sufficiently covered, making your results reliable. However, if you have concerns about other potential exposures or symptoms like unusual discharge, lesions, or pain, you might consider additional testing for infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes, as these require specific tests and are not included in general blood screenings.

Your hematology, thyroid profile, urine analysis, and glucose levels seem normal except, perhaps, elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit values, which might reflect dehydration or high altitude living—worth a follow-up discussion. Calcium oxalate crystals in urine are common; staying well-hydrated helps prevent kidney stones. If molluscum lesions persist or spread, a clinician might suggest treatments like cryotherapy or topical agents. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding sharing towels or razors can prevent further spread. If there’s any pain, pus, or infection signs around the lesions, prompt medical evaluation would be recommended to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

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Akash Kumar
I am a doctor who finished my medical degree in 2024, but honestly my real start in healthcare kinda goes back to 2019 when I first got pulled into day-to-day clinical work. I moved through ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, general medicine and emergency care—sometimes bouncing between them faster than I expected. That mix gave me a pretty wide view of how different systems in the body act up in totally different ways, and I still catch myself thinking about a case from one department while working in another, which sounds confusing but somehow helps me connect things better. During my year at the District Government Hospital in the middle of the COVID mess (no other word fits), I was doing everything from rapid triage to dealing with patients who needed urgent respiratory support. Those days were long and somtimes a bit chaotic; protocols kept changing, supplies came and went, and we had to adjust on the fly. But that year grounded me in real-world medicine more than any lecture ever could. I learned how to read a situation fast, when to slow down even if everyone is rushing, and how to stay focused even when my mind felt like it was slipping off track. I try to bring that same practical, patient-first mindset into my clinical practice now. Whether I am looking at a kid with a stubborn cough or checking an older patient’s chronic issues, I pay attention to the small clues—skin changes, airway patterns, vision complaints, odd ENT symptoms—because they often lead to what’s really going on. My approach is not fancy; I just like to keep things clear, evidence-based, and kinda down to earth, even if my wording gets a bit messy sometimes or I miss a comma here or tehre. I suppose what matters most is that every part of my early training shaped how I care for people today. And even if I still feel like I am figuring out the “perfect” way to explain things, I stay committed to giving patients practical guidance they can actually use, backed by the clinical exposure I have lived through rather than just read about.
5 days ago
5

Hello Molluscum Contagiosum in the pubic area can sometimes be transmitted through sexual contact, but it is not strictly considered a classical sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by a skin virus and can spread through skin-to-skin contact, shaving, or contaminated surfaces.

You have already done screening for the major blood-borne sexually transmitted infections: • HIV (4th generation test) • Hepatitis B • Hepatitis C • Syphilis

Since your last sexual exposure was 6 months ago, negative results for these tests are considered reliable and conclusive, and they usually do not need to be repeated unless there has been a new exposure. ( do not repeat test)

These infections often do not cause symptoms, but they are not directly caused by molluscum. Testing is mainly done as part of a complete STI screening panel.

Recommend:—

1.	Avoid shaving or scratching the area because it can spread the virus to nearby skin.
2.	Avoid sexual contact until the lesions are treated or fully healed.
3.	Keep the area clean and dry.
  4.  It's self-limiting and usually resolves on its own within 6-12 months

In most healthy adults, molluscum resolves with treatment or on its own, but removing the lesions helps prevent spreading.

Thank you

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