Exams and Tests

Molluscum contagiosum is usually diagnosed during a physical exam. If you have bumps in your genital area, your doctor may check for other sexually transmitted diseases, such as genital herpes. Some doctors may consider testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) if you are at risk for the condition and you have bumps on your face or other symptoms of a severe case of molluscum contagiosum.

A biopsy may be done if the diagnosis is unclear and other conditions are suspected.