An Inflammatory Reaction Surrounding Molluscum Contagiosum as Possible Manifestation of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in HIV Infection

Highly active antiretroviral therapy can restore specific immune responses and control of microorganism infections in human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients. This immune recovery may cause an inflammatory reaction to microbial and autoimmune antigens known as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. We describe a clinical case with an intense inflammatory response surrounding molluscum contagiosum after highly active antiretroviral therapy. The clinical and laboratory findings suggested that the reaction was due to immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome occurring during a period of immune recovery in a child with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.