Molluscum contagiosum
DEFINITION
Molluscum contagiosum (mo-LUS-kum kun-tay-jee-OH-sum) is a relatively common viral infection of the skin that results in round, firm, painless bumps ranging in size from a pinhead to a pencil eraser. If the bumps are scratched or injured, the infection can spread to surrounding skin.
Though most common in children, molluscum contagiosum can affect adults as well — particularly those with weakened immune systems. In adults with an otherwise normal immune system, molluscum contagiosum involving the genitals is considered a sexually transmitted infection.
Molluscum contagiosum spreads through direct person-to-person contact and through contact with contaminated objects. The bumps associated with molluscum contagiosum usually disappear within a year without treatment but doctor-assisted removal is also an option
CAUSES
The virus that causes molluscum contagiosum spreads easily through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact
- Contact with contaminated objects, such as toys, towels and faucet handles
- Sexual contact with an affected partner
- Scratching or rubbing the bumps spreads the virus to nearby skin.
SYMPTOMS
Signs and symptoms of molluscum contagiosum include bumps on the skin that:
- Are raised, round and flesh colored
- Are small — typically under about 1/4 inch (smaller than 6 millimeters) in diameter
- Characteristically have a small indentation (umbilication) or dot at the top near the center
- Can become red and inflamed
- May be itchy
- Can be easily removed by scratching or rubbing, which can spread the virus to adjacent skin
- Usually appear on the face, neck, armpits, arms and tops of the hands in children
- May be seen on the genitals, lower abdomen and inner upper thighs in adults if the infection was sexually transmitted
When to see a doctor
If you suspect you or your child has molluscum contagiosum, consult your primary care doctor.
