Molluscum Contagiosum

What does molluscum contagiosum look like?

Molluscum typically causes small, smooth, dome-shaped bumps. They may be flesh-colored, white, pink or slightly red and often have a small indentation in the center.

The bumps may appear individually or in clusters and commonly develop on the:

• Face and neck
• Arms and underarms
• Chest and abdomen
• Groin
• Buttocks
• Backs of the knees

Although the bumps are usually painless, they may become itchy, irritated, swollen or red. Scratching can damage the skin and increase the risk of a secondary bacterial infection.

How does molluscum contagiosum spread?

Molluscum contagiosum spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin. It can also spread by touching objects that have come into contact with the bumps, such as towels, clothing, sports equipment or personal care items.

A person can spread the virus from one area of their body to another by scratching, picking or shaving over the bumps. In adults, bumps around the genital area may be transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact.

The infection remains contagious until all the bumps have disappeared.

Who is most likely to develop molluscum?

Anyone can develop molluscum contagiosum, but it is especially common among young children.

People may have a greater likelihood of developing numerous or persistent bumps if they:

• Have eczema or another condition that weakens the skin barrier
• Participate in activities involving frequent skin-to-skin contact
• Share towels, clothing or athletic equipment
• Have a weakened immune system
• Live in a warm, humid climate

People with eczema may also develop inflammation or an itchy rash around the molluscum bumps.

Does molluscum go away without treatment?

In people with a healthy immune system, molluscum usually clears on its own without leaving scars. However, the process can take several months or longer. New bumps may continue to appear while older ones are healing.

Treatment may be recommended when the bumps are spreading, irritated, located near the eyes or genitals, aggravating eczema or causing emotional or cosmetic concerns.

How is molluscum contagiosum treated?

Treatment is selected according to the patient’s age, the number and location of the bumps, the condition of the surrounding skin and whether the infection is spreading.

Treatment options may include:

• Cantharidin applied during an office visit
• Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen
• Curettage to carefully remove individual bumps
• Prescription topical medications
• Treatment for surrounding eczema or skin irritation

Some procedures may cause temporary blistering, irritation, discoloration or discomfort. Your dermatology provider will recommend an appropriate option based on your individual needs.

Do not attempt to cut, squeeze, burn or remove molluscum bumps at home. Doing so may spread the infection and increase the risk of skin damage, infection or scarring.

How can I help prevent molluscum from spreading?

To reduce the risk of spreading the virus:

• Avoid scratching or picking the bumps
• Keep the affected skin clean
• Cover visible bumps when participating in contact activities
• Avoid shaving over the affected area
• Do not share towels, clothing, razors or personal items
• Wash your hands after touching the affected skin
• Avoid intimate skin contact when bumps are present near the genitals

Children with molluscum usually do not need to stay home from school or daycare, but visible bumps may need to be covered according to the facility’s policies.

Schedule a molluscum contagiosum consultation

Molluscum contagiosum may resemble warts, folliculitis or other skin conditions. The Dermatology Clinic can confirm the diagnosis, determine whether treatment is appropriate and recommend a personalized plan to safely clear the bumps and limit their spread. Contact us today to get scheduled.