Viral infections of the pubis

Abstract

There are no demographic data published on those with viral infections of the pubis (VIPs). We conducted a two-year prospective study to collect demographic information on patients with VIPs. Data were gathered on age, sex, diagnosis, low (≤10) or high (>10) lesion number, symptoms, how the patient discovered the lesions, localization, lesions beyond the pubis, risk factors, shaving habits, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination status and treatment. In a total of 61 patients, molluscum contagiosum (MC) was identified in 71%, condylomata acuminata (CA) in 11%, concomitant MC and CA infections in 11% and herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in 4.8%. Shaving represented a risk factor for a high lesion number, but not for the extension beyond the pubis. MC, CA and HSV infections affecting the pubis are uncommon and often asymptomatic. As they may represent a hidden source of infection we recommend thorough inspection of the pubis during routine skin examination.

Complications related to pubic hair removal

“…2–3 This practice may result in adverse health consequences, including genital burns from waxing, severe skin irritation leading to post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, vulvar and vaginal irritation and infection, and the spread or transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI). 4–7 Less serious complications that may be experienced as a result of pubic hair removal include: epidermal abrasion, ingrown hairs, folliculitis, vulvitis, or contact dermatitis.…”

Lesions of the Mons Pubis

“…It has been suggested that pubic hair removal may increase the risk for minor sexually transmitted diseases such as molluscum contagiosum through microtrauma [2]. Castronovo et al [3] suggest that the pubis is a reservoir for sexually transmitted diseases, and although shaving does not increase the risk of transmission, it may increase lesion numbers through autoinoculation. Severe lacerations from razors and more severe infections have been reported, and wax burns can occur [4].…”

UK national guideline for the management of Genital Molluscum in adults, 2014 Clinical Effectiveness Group, British Association for Sexual Health and HIV

“…113 Similarly, patients should be advised against squeezing molluscum spots, both due to risk of superinfection and also as the central plug is full of infectious virus that is easily spread to uninfected skin.…”