Trichloroacetic Acid Peel of Molluscum Contagiosum in Immunocompromised Patients

Seven human immunodeficiency virus‐(HIV) positive patients with biopsy proved extensive facial molluscum contagiosum were treated with trichloroacetic acid peels. Peels were performed with 25 to 50% trichloroacetic acid (average 35%) and were repeated every 2 weeks as needed. A total of 15 peels were performed with an average reduction in lesion counts of 40.5% (range 0 to 90%). No spread of molluscum lesions, scarring, or secondary infection developed at 2 months' follow‐up. Trichloroacetic acid peeling in concentrations of 35% or less appears to be a safe, effective, adjuvant therapy in the treatment of extensive molluscum contagiosum in immunocompromised patients. 1992 American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.