What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum Contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) — a member of the poxvirus family.
It leads to the appearance of small, raised, dome-shaped bumps on the skin. These bumps are usually White, flesh-colored or pink, and they often have a central dimple (umbilication).
How Does It Spread?
It is called “contagiosum” because it spreads easily through:
Direct skin-to-skin contact
Touching contaminated objects (towels, clothes, toys, gym equipment)
Sexual contact (in adults)
Scratching or rubbing the lesions can spread the virus to other parts of the body (autoinoculation)
Who Can Get It?
Molluscum contagiosum can affect any age, but is most common in:
Children (1–10 years)
Adults with weakened immune systems
Sexually active adults (if lesions are in genital area)
People with eczema or sensitive skin
What Do the Bumps Look Like?
Size: 2–5 mm (sometimes larger)
Color: Flesh-toned, pink, or white
Texture: Smooth, shiny, with a central dimple
Number: May appear as a single bump or in clusters
Location: Face, neck, arms,underarms, abdomen, thighs, and in adults, genital region also
These lesions are usually painless, but can become itchy or red if irritated or infected.
How Long Does It Last?
In most healthy individuals, molluscum clears on its own within 6–12 months. Though it can heal on its own, should be cautious about the spread
In some cases, it can take up to 2 years.
In people with weak immunity, it may last longer and be harder to treat.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Clinical examination – based on the appearance of the bumps. Your Dermatologist will examine and suggest you the right treatment
In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
In some cases, no treatment is needed — especially in children — since it resolves naturally.
However, treatment may be needed if:
The bumps are bothering you
They are spreading quickly
They’re in sensitive areas (face, genitals)
There is a risk of transmission to others
Anyways, it’s better to consult a Dermatologist at the earliest so that the right advice will be given to you
Treatment options :
Topical creams
Cryotherapy (freezing the bumps)
Curettage (removing the lesion with a tool)
Laser therapy
Oral antivirals or immune boosters (in immunocompromised patients)
Note:
All the above treatments are to be done by Dermatologist only .
Do not try to pop or scratch the bumps. It can spread and secondary bacterial infection can occur as well.
Prevention Tips
Avoid touching the bumps
Do not share towels, clothes, razors
Use separate towels and soaps for the affected areas
Avoid swimming pools or skin contact sports until healed
Practice safe sex — use protection to reduce spread in genital areas
Good hand hygiene
Wash children’s toys regularly
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