Typical Age Range for Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum most commonly affects children aged 1-10 years, with peak incidence in the 5-10 year age group, though it can occur in sexually active adults and immunocompromised individuals at any age. 1, 2
Age Distribution in Children
The highest incidence occurs in children aged 5-10 years, followed by the 1-5 year age group, with less frequent occurrence in children aged 10-14 years and rare cases in infants under 1 year. 3
Children represent approximately 85% of all molluscum contagiosum cases, with the condition typically affecting the trunk, face, and extremities in this population. 3
The male-to-female ratio in children is approximately 1.6:1, suggesting relatively equal distribution between sexes in the pediatric population. 3
Age Distribution in Adults
In adults, molluscum contagiosum is most commonly seen in the 14-20 year age group, with decreasing frequency in older age groups (20-26 years, 26-34 years, and 34-40 years). 3
Adult cases show a higher male predominance with a male-to-female ratio of 3.3:1, likely reflecting sexual transmission patterns. 3
In sexually active adults, lesions characteristically involve the genital area and the condition is regarded as a sexually transmitted infection. 4
Special Populations
Immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV/AIDS, can develop molluscum contagiosum at any age with more extensive, atypical presentations including giant molluscum and disseminated lesions. 4, 3
HIV-positive patients may present with multiple large lesions with minimal inflammation, and the onset can be part of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). 4