Treatment Options | Molluscum Contagiosum | Pox viruses

What are the treatment options?

Because molluscum contagiosum is self-limited in healthy individuals, treatment may be unnecessary. Nonetheless, issues such as lesion visibility, underlying atopic disease, and the desire to prevent transmission may prompt therapy.

Treatment for molluscum is usually recommended if lesions are in the genital area (on or near the penis, vulva, vagina, or anus). If lesions are found in this area it is a good idea to visit your healthcare provider as there is a possibility that you may have another disease spread by sexual contact.

Be aware that some treatments available through the internet may not be effective and may even be harmful.

Physical removal

Physical removal of lesions may include cryotherapy (freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen), curettage (the piercing of the core and scraping of caseous or cheesy material), and laser therapy. These options are rapid and require a trained health care provider, may require local anesthesia, and can result in post-procedural pain, irritation, and scarring.

It is not a good idea to try and remove lesions or the fluid inside of lesions yourself. By removing lesions or lesion fluid by yourself you may unintentionally autoinoculate other parts of the body or risk spreading it to others. By scratching or scraping the skin you could cause a bacterial infection.

Oral therapy

Gradual removal of lesions may be achieved by oral therapy. This technique is often desirable for pediatric patients because it is generally less painful and may be performed by parents at home in a less threatening environment. Oral cimetidine has been used as an alternative treatment for small children who are either afraid of the pain associated with cryotherapy, curettage, and laser therapy or because the possibility of scarring is to be avoided. While cimetidine is safe, painless, and well tolerated, facial mollusca do not respond as well as lesions elsewhere on the body.

Topical therapy

Podophyllotoxin cream (0.5%) is reliable as a home therapy for men but is not recommended for pregnant women because of presumed toxicity to the fetus. Each lesion must be treated individually as the therapeutic effect is localized. Other options for topical therapy include iodine and salicylic acid, potassium hydroxide, tretinoin, cantharidin (a blistering agent usually applied in an office setting), and imiquimod (T cell modifier). Imiquimod has not been proven effective for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children and is not recommended for children due to possible adverse events.  These treatments must be prescribed by a health care professional.

Therapy for immunocompromised persons

Most therapies are effective in immunocompetent patients; however, patients with HIV/AIDS or other immunosuppressing conditions often do not respond to traditional treatments. In addition, these treatments are largely ineffective in achieving long-term control in HIV patients.

Low CD4 cell counts have been linked to widespread facial mollusca and therefore have become a marker for severe HIV disease. Thus far, therapies targeted at boosting the immune system have proven the most effective therapy for molluscum contagiosum in immunocompromised persons. In extreme cases, intralesional interferon has been used to treat facial lesions in these patients. However, the severe and unpleasant side effects of interferon, such as influenza-like symptoms, site tenderness, depression, and lethargy, make it a less-than-desirable treatment. Furthermore, interferon therapy proved most effective in otherwise healthy persons. Radiation therapy is also of little benefit.

Molluscum contagiosum – Treatment – NHS

Treatment for molluscum contagiosum (MC) is not routinely recommended because most cases clear up on their own in around 6 to 18 months.

If left alone, MC does not tend to result in scarring or cause any symptoms other than spots. Squeezing or scratching the spots can cause pain and bleeding and may increase the chances of scarring. It also increases the risk of spreading the infection.

Many of the treatments available for MC can be painful or upsetting for young children and some may increase the chances of permanent scarring.

Treatment is usually only recommended for adults and older children who have spots that are particularly unsightly and are affecting their quality of life.

Treatment is also be recommended for people with weakened immune systems, as the condition can take several years to clear in these cases.

Topical treatments

There are a number of topical treatments (creams, lotions and ointments) that can be used to treat MC, although there’s not enough evidence to know if any particular treatment is more effective than the others.

Potassium hydroxide

Potassium hydroxide is a medicine available in liquid form that can improve MC by breaking down the skin cells infected by the virus, allowing the immune system to tackle it.

The liquid is applied twice a day on each spot. The spots should eventually become inflamed, before healing and disappearing within the next few weeks.

You should stop using the medicine once the spots have started to become inflamed, or after 14 days if the medicine does not seem to be working.

Side effects of potassium hydroxide can include redness and a slight burning or itching sensation, which usually only lasts for a few minutes after the medicine is applied.

Podophyllotoxin

Podophyllotoxin comes in liquid form and poisons the cells of the spots. A special application stick is used to draw up the correct dosage of liquid, which is then dripped onto each spot. You may experience some mild irritation.

The treatment needs to be applied for a few days, followed by a few days without treatment. This is referred to as a treatment cycle.

Imiquimod

Imiquimod is a cream that can be used to treat larger spots or large clusters of spots.

Some studies have found that imiquimod is usually only effective when it is used by people with a weakened immune system. It works by stimulating your immune system into attacking the spots.

You apply the cream to the spots, then wash it off after 6-10 hours. This should be done 3 times a week.

It may take several weeks of treatment before you notice an improvement. Common side effects of imiquimod include:

• hard and flaky skin
• redness and swelling of the skin
• a burning or itching sensation after applying the cream
• headache

These side effects are usually mild and should pass within 2 weeks of stopping treatment.

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is usually available in cream or gel form. It’s applied to the spots once or twice a day, after washing and drying the affected area. Use benzoyl peroxide sparingly, because too much can harm your skin.

Benzoyl peroxide makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so either avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and sources of ultraviolet (UV) light such as sunbeds or sun lamps, or wear sun cream.

Avoid getting the medicine on hair and clothes, as it can bleach them. Wash your hands thoroughly after you finish applying the medicine.

Common side effects of benzoyl peroxide include:

• dry and red skin
• a burning, itching or stinging sensation
• some peeling of the skin

These side effects are usually mild and should resolve after the treatment has finished.

Tretinoin

Tretinoin is available as a liquid that’s applied once or twice a day to individual spots. As with benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin can make your skin sensitive to sunlight and UV light.

Tretinoin is not suitable for use during pregnancy because it can cause birth defects. It’s important to use a reliable method of contraception while taking tretinoin if you’re a sexually active woman.

The most common side effects of tretinoin are mild irritation and stinging of the skin. It may take several months before you notice an improvement in your symptoms.

Other treatments

There are a number of minor procedures that can help remove or destroy MC spots.

They can be painful, so are not generally suitable for children. They must always be carried out by a suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the spots with liquid nitrogen to remove them. Each spot is frozen for 5-10 seconds, so that a layer of ice forms over the spot and surrounding skin.

You may need several sessions of cryotherapy before each spot clears completely. You’ll need to wait 2 to 3 weeks between each treatment session.

Diathermy

Diathermy uses heat to remove the spots. The area being treated is numbed with a local anaesthetic and a heated electrical device is used to burn off the spots.

Curettage

Curettage removes spots by scraping them off with a thin, metal, spoon-like instrument called a curette. As with diathermy, you may have a local anaesthetic before having this type of treatment.

Pulsed-dye lasers

Pulsed-dye laser treatment is a relatively new type of treatment for MC. It uses a powerful beam of light to destroy the cells that make up each spot. 

You may experience some skin discolouration and discomfort in the treated areas, but this should improve within a few weeks. The procedure may need to be repeated several times to clear all of your spots.

Pulsed-dye laser treatment uses expensive equipment and its availability on the NHS is limited. You’ll probably have to pay privately for the treatment, which can be expensive.

Molluscum-Wart

Is this your child’s symptom?

• Small raised growths that have a smooth, waxy surface
• The medical name is molluscum contagiosum
• Viral infection of the skin
• A doctor has told you your child has molluscum or
• Your child has had close contact with another person who has it

Symptoms of Molluscum

• Small bumps with a waxy or pearl-colored, smooth surface
• May have a dimple (indent) in center
• Bumps are firm with a core of white material.
• Are many different sizes, from pinhead to ¼ inch (3 to 6 mm) across
• Can occur anywhere on the body, but usually stay in just one area
• Are sometimes itchy, but not painful
• Usually age 2 to 12 years
• Most infected children get 5 to 10 of them

Cause of Molluscum

• They are caused by a poxvirus. This is a different virus than the one that causes warts.
• Friction or picking at them causes them to increase in number.

To Treat or Not to Treat?

• Some doctors advise not treating them if there are only a few. Reason: They are harmless and painless.
• They have a natural tendency to heal and go away on their own.

When Special Treatment is Considered

• Your child picks at them
• They are in areas of friction (for example, the armpit)
• They are spreading quickly or
• You feel they are a cosmetic problem

Prevent Spread to Others

• Avoid baths or hot tubs with other children. Reason: Can spread in warm water.
• Also, avoid sharing washcloths or towels.
• Contact sports: Can spread to other team members. They should be covered or treated.
• Time it takes to get them: 4 to 8 weeks after close contact.

When to Call for Molluscum-Wart

Call Doctor or Seek Care Now

• Redness or red streak spreading from molluscum with fever
• Your child looks or acts very sick

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

• Redness or red streak spreading from molluscum without fever
• You think your child needs to be seen

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

• Molluscum on the face
• 4 or more molluscum
• Your child can’t stop picking at the molluscum
• Pus is draining from the molluscum (Apply antibiotic ointment 3 times per day until seen)
• On treatment more than 2 weeks and new molluscum appear
• On treatment more than 12 weeks and molluscum not gone
• You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations

If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.

Care Advice for Molluscum

1. What You Should Know About Molluscum:
   • They are harmless and painless.
   • Wart-removing acids are not helpful.
   • Duct tape treatment will make them go away faster.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Duct Tape – Cover the Molluscum:
   • Covering them with duct tape can irritate them. This turns on the body’s immune system.
   • Cover as many of them as possible. (Cover at least 3 of them.)
   • The covered ones become red and start to die. When this happens, often all of them will go away.
   • Try to keep them covered all the time.
   • Remove the tape once per day, usually before bathing. Then replace it after bathing.
   • Some children don’t like the tape on at school. At the very least, tape it every night.
3. Prevent the Spread to Other Areas of Your Child’s Body:
   • Discourage your child from picking at them.
   • Picking it and scratching a new area with the same finger can spread them. A new one can form in 1 to 2 months.
   • Chewing or sucking on them can lead to similar bumps on the face.
   • If your child is doing this, cover them. You can use a bandage (such as Band-Aid).
   • Keep your child’s fingernails cut short and wash your child’s hands more often.
4. What to Expect:
   • Without treatment, they go away in 6 to 18 months.
   • If covered with duct tape, they may go away in 2 or 3 months.
   • If picked at often, they can become infected with bacteria. If this happens, they change into crusty sores (impetigo).
5. Return to School:
   • Your child doesn’t have to miss any child care or school.
   • There is a mild risk of spread to others.
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Your child continues to pick at them
   • New ones develop after 2 weeks of treatment
   • They are still present after 12 weeks of treatment
   • You think your child needs to be seen

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed: 05/30/2021

Last Revised: 03/11/2021

Copyright 2000-2021. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

Molluscum contagiosum – Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

Your doctor usually can diagnose molluscum contagiosum just by looking at it. If there’s any doubt, he or she may take skin scrapings from the infected area and view them under a microscope.

Treatment

Molluscum contagiosum usually gets better without treatment in six to 12 months. However, it’s possible to continue developing bumps for up to five years. Once all of your bumps are gone, you’re no longer contagious.

Doctors may recommend that the lesions be removed before they disappear on their own, particularly in adults, because they are so contagious. Treatments for molluscum contagiosum can be painful, so an anesthetic might be administered beforehand to lessen discomfort. Sometimes a combination of treatments may be used.

Options include:

• Scraping
• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• A medicine that causes blisters (cantharidin), which lift off the bumps

Preparing for your appointment

You’ll likely start by visiting your or your child’s primary care practitioner. However, in some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred immediately to a doctor who specializes in treating skin conditions (dermatologist).

Because appointments can be brief, and because there’s often a lot of ground to cover, it’s a good idea to be well-prepared for your appointment. Here’s some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and know what to expect from your doctor.

What you can do

Before your appointment, write a list that answers the following questions:

• What symptoms are you experiencing?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
• What medications and supplements do you take on a regular basis?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• Have you had similar lesions in the past?
• Has anyone close to you had similar lesions?

March 21, 2020

Show references

1. Molluscum contagiosum. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/molluscum-contagiosum/index.html. Accessed Feb. 27, 2018.
2. Longo DL, et al., eds. Molluscum contagiosum, monkeypox, and other poxvirus infections. In: Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 19th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2015. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Feb. 27, 2018.
3. Hay WW, et al., eds. Skin. In: Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Pediatrics. 23rd ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2016. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Feb. 27, 2018.
4. Isaacs SN. Molluscum contagiosum. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 27, 2018.
5. AskMayoExpert. Molluscum contagiosum. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. 2018.

Molluscum Contagiosum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What Is Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection. It most often affects children, but adults with weakened immune systems can get it, too.

Skin and Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum causes either single or multiple raised, pearl-like bumps (papules) on the skin. It’s a chronic infection, so the bumps may last for a few months or a few years. But most cases get better in 6 to 9 months.

Molluscum Contagiosum Symptoms

Molluscum contagiosum papules commonly appear on the face, trunk, and limbs of children and on the genitals, abdomen, and inner thighs of adults. The condition usually causes bumps that:

• Are generally painless but can itch
• Are small (2 to 5 millimeters in diameter)
• Have a dimple in the center
• Are firm, dome-shaped, and flesh-colored at first
• Become softer with time
• May turn red and drain over time
• Have a central core of white, waxy material

Molluscum contagiosum usually disappears on its own over a period of months to years if you have a healthy immune system. If you have AIDS or other conditions that affect the immune system, molluscum contagiosum can lead to widespread, chronic sores.

Molluscum Contagiosum Causes

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. It’s part of the pox virus family. You can spread molluscum contagiosum:

• Through direct contact with an infected person
• By having sexual contact with an infected person
• By rubbing or scratching the bumps

Molluscum Contagiosum Diagnosis

A diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is based on the way the papule looks. If your doctor isn’t sure, they can confirm the diagnosis with a skin biopsy. They’ll remove a piece of skin to look at more closely. If they’re worried you might have other health problems, they can check for them, too.

Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment

Because molluscum contagiosum can go away on its own, you may not need treatment. But the doctor can remove individual bumps by scraping or freezing them. This procedure could leave a scar.

Topical medications (medications you put on your skin), like those used to remove warts, can also help remove the papules.

Molluscum Contagiosum Prevention

To prevent molluscum contagiosum, follow these tips:

• Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with anyone who may have the condition.
• Treat eczema in children.
• Either don’t have sex or have a monogamous sexual relationship with someone who isn’t infected. (Male and female condoms don’t offer full protection. The virus can get to areas the condom doesn’t cover. )

Molluscum | Complete Dermatology

What is molluscum contagiosum (MC) ?

Molluscum Contagiosum (MC) are usually flesh colored bumps on the skin that are caused by the MC virus. They are usually painless, but can become painful once rubbed or irritated. These are contagious with direct or indirect contact with someone who has them.

Who gets Molluscum Contagiosum (MC) ?

They are often seen in children, particularly those with eczema or dry skin (cracked skin provides a better environment for the virus to infect the skin and grow). They can also be found in sexually active adults, as a sexually transmitted infection. Additionally, they can spread more easily in immunocompromised patients.

How do I know if I have it ?

MC lesions have a characteristic appearance, with an umbilication in the middle of flesh-colored, pink, or purple bumps. In children, they are often on the trunk and extremities, but may be anywhere on the body including the buttock and thigh folds. In adults they are often in or near the groin region, but can also be anywhere on the skin.

How can I treat Molluscum Contagiosum (MC) ?

It is best treated by a dermatologist in the office. Usually liquid nitrogen is used on MC lesions, with fairly good response. Usually only 2-3 treatment sessions are required (more, for extensive spread). For young children who cannot tolerate liquid nitrogen often cantharidin, “beetle juice”, a curette, or certain topical medicines are used. Another option in children is to not treat, as the lesions are harmless and may go away on their own with good skin care. Vaseline, petroleum jelly can be placed on lesions to hasten resolution. It is also important to address any dry skin or eczema present, to prevent new lesions from starting and allow the skin to heal faster. Generally, parents do choose to have these treated, as certain places such as schools or camps may require their child to get treatment. There are some over the counter therapies that also may be tried as well. Additionally, it is important to avoid scratching or shaving MC lesions to prevent further spread.

How can I prevent Molluscum Contagiosum (MC) ?

To prevent Molluscum Contagiosum (MC), one can maintain healthy skin by avoiding irritating and fragrant products and moisturizing frequently. Additionally, one can try avoid direct or indirect contact with someone who has it, e.g. by not sharing towels with others.

When should I see a dermatologist about it ?

You can see a dermatologist for your MC once you think you might have it, to confirm the diagnosis, consider treatment options, get more testing if appropriate, and stop its spread.

Additional Resources:
American Academy of Dermatology

What to Do for Molluscum Contagiosum – Cleveland Clinic

Strange pearly, wart-like bumps. And combine that with a disease name that sounds like some underwater adventure gone awry.

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A parent’s first reaction? It’s likely panic. But pediatric dermatologist Cheryl Bayart, MD, says it’s not necessary. Molluscum contagiosum is pretty much a childhood rite of passage. (Sorry, squeamish moms and dads!) Here, Dr. Bayart fields questions about this common skin rash.

Q: What is molluscum contagiosum and is it contagious?

A: Molluscum contagiosum is a highly contagious virus in the pox family that’s really common. But a lot of parents don’t talk about it. (Think about it, who really wants those bragging rights?)

It’s all around us in the environment, so almost everyone gets exposed to it at some point. (Fun fact: If you tested everyone, nearly 80 percent of the population would have antibodies against it).

Q: How do you catch it?

A: Molluscum spreads from person-to-person, a little like the wart virus. If there’s any little open area of skin, it invades and infects it. The result? In some people, it’s those pink bumps ― the molluscum. Others (lucky genetics and immune systems!) are exposed and don’t get bumps.  Or they get one and it’s so tiny that they don’t even realize.

The virus thrives on wet surfaces. So it’s easily picked up from gym mats, towels and swimming pool surfaces.

Q: Are the bumps anything other than kind of gross looking?

A: They’re not too scary. They’re actually harmless. They are skin-limited (that means they can’t spread to other parts of the body). They can’t infect the eyes or the lungs, even in people who have an abnormal immune system.

What happens is the molluscum virus just hangs out in your skin. It evades your immune system’s recognition since it’s only in your skin’s top layer, or epidermis. At some point, your immune system catches on that it’s there and gets rid of the bumps. When that happens, you’re immune. You never get them again.

Q: How long is it contagious?

A: It’s contagious as long as the child still has the molluscum.

If you look at the bumps, they’re usually pink, domed-shaped. And sometimes if you look up close, they’re what you call umbilicated (meaning they look like they have a little belly button in the middle). That’s the core of viral particles, or the contagious part of the molluscum.

Once the body’s immune system kicks in and there’s crusting or a little scabby spot, that particular molluscum isn’t contagious anymore.

If your child has been exposed to molluscum contagiosum, it will take two to seven weeks to know if they’ll develop the molluscum.

Q: Can kids who have molluscum contagiosum still go to school?

A: Yes. Children who have molluscum contagiosum shouldn’t have their activities limited. They can interact with children normally. Why? The virus is all around us. It’s kind of like how chickenpox used to be before we have the vaccine. Everybody got it. And then it goes away.

It can last for years, so it would be ridiculous to keep a child out of school when it’s totally harmless.

I don’t think there’s any purpose in avoiding exposure since everyone’s going to get exposed at some point. There’s really no need to make your kid wear long sleeves, or not bathe your small kids with their siblings.

Q: Is any treatment needed?

A: My favorite treatment for molluscum is nothing. Usually, kids aren’t bothered by it ― but most of the treatments are bothersome.

That said, there are several reasons (besides not knowing what the heck they are) why you might seek out help:

They get red and crusty. As the body tries to get rid of them, they can look like a pimple or an abscess (but they’re not). It’s just all of the immune cells since the body’s fighting it. Believe it or not, it’s actually a very good sign. I call it the ‘BOTE’ sign ― the ‘beginning of the end’. So, while it may look scary, it’s not an infection and doesn’t need antibiotics.

There’s an itchy rash around them. This reaction happens most often in kids with eczema and a topical treatment to soothe it may be needed.

Your child is self-conscious. Molluscum is most common in younger kids (preschool to early elementary), but older kids or teens can also get it and may worry about the perceived social stigma.

Typically, it’s the parent who’s motivated to seek treatment.

There are topical treatments and destructive treatments (like freezing or scraping them off, which may or may not increase the risk of scarring). There’s also some evidence that oral medications and supplements ― like the over-the-counter antacid cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and zinc ― may help the immune system fight the virus.

However, none of these treatments (though studied) are FDA-approved for molluscum. And none are wonderfully effective.

Q: Does molluscum contagiosum ever scar?

A: It does leave little pock-like scars in kids. But since they’re not seen in adults, it’s likely that they go away with time as the skin stretches and grows. It’s typically not permanent.

Q: Can molluscum contagiosum really last for up to 4 years?

A: Yes, you can imagine that’s frustrating. Yet a lot of folks have them and they never see a dermatologist. They never bring it to the attention of their doctor because they just go away.

Q: Does everyone who gets the virus have a weakened immune system?

A: No, the vast majority of people who get it don’t have weakened immune systems. And in everyone, they do go away.

Q: Is molluscum contagiosum a sexually transmitted disease?

A: Typically, this is a virus we see in children. It’s so common that it’s considered a childhood rite of passage.

But in adults, it can be transmitted sexually and people with HIV/AIDS have trouble getting rid of the virus.

If a child does have the molluscum in the private areas, it isn’t a sign of sexual abuse. It’s just spreading from one area to another.

90,000 Molluscum contagiosum in children

Molluscum contagiosum is a cutaneous viral disease (molluscum contagiosum) caused by one of the smallpox viruses. Most often, the skin and mucous membranes are affected at the site of contact with the carrier of the virus. It is usually transmitted by contact with a person, but it can also be infected through household items, as well as in a pool or bathhouse.

Stages of molluscum contagiosum in children:

– Within 1.5 – 2 weeks incubation period there are no visible clear signs of infection;

– In the second stage, characteristic dense nodules of pinkish, flesh or waxy color appear on the child’s skin, in the center of which there are depressions. The size of the nodules is from 0.5 to 1 mm;

– Gradually, the bubbles grow to a size of 5-15 mm and take a domed shape, in rare cases they can be large. When pressed, a gruel-like mass is released;

Usually within 6-12 months, the body itself copes with this infection.Most often, the disease does not cause severe inconvenience to the patient, but since the disease is infectious in nature, the child must be isolated.

If you do not want your child to be in quarantine for six months, not be able to attend a kindergarten or a school, his communication was limited, then you need to carry out treatment.

Molluscum contagiosum in children: treatment

Treatment of this infection is carried out by three main methods, which, in essence, are reduced to the removal of molluscum contagiosum in children.Namely:

• removal with a Volkmann spoon, that is, scraping out the contents of the vial with further disinfection and cauterization, with or without the use of painkillers;
• moxibustion with liquid nitrogen;
• removal using a laser.

Do not be afraid of a visit to the doctor. The child should also be told that the surgeon will help get rid of the trouble. Removal of molluscum contagiosum is almost painless, the wounds heal instantly.

An experienced, qualified dermatologist will help you get rid of this problem, as well as give recommendations and, if necessary, prescribe a course of antiviral drugs, he can also recommend using modern effective medicines to prevent the spread of shellfish. Do not self-medicate, as this can lead to the opposite results.

Symptoms and Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum in Children – Information for Parents

What You Need to Know About Molluscum Contagiosum Removal

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infectious disease characterized by nodular eruptions on the skin and mucous membranes.The infection is transmitted by contact and most often occurs in children under the age of 10. Molluscum contagiosum does not pose a health hazard, but it does create a visible cosmetic defect. Removal of molluscum contagiosum is carried out in several ways: mechanical, using a laser, low temperatures (cryodestruction) and electric current (cauterization). Treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis.

Immediate causes of contagious molluscum infection are contact with a sick person or the use of contaminated dishes.

Factors contributing to the development of the disease:

90,024 90,025 skin lesions;

90,025 intake of hormones and cytostatics;

90,025 visits to public places.

Symptoms and treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children will be discussed further.

Molluscum contagiosum in adult women and men

For adults, sexual transmission is characteristic.The disease most often affects the skin of the pubis, lower abdomen, inner thighs and external genitalia. The number of nodular eruptions varies from one to several dozen. The severity of manifestations depends on the state of the immune system, the type of pathogen, general health, and so on. As for the treatment of the disease, there are some nuances here. For example, doctors do not recommend removing molluscum contagiosum on the penis in men and in the vagina in women – after removal, scars may remain.

Clinical manifestations of the disease

The incubation period for molluscum contagiosum in adult women and men lasts from two weeks to six months. At this time, the person does not notice any changes in the skin and does not make complaints. After this period, the active stage begins with the appearance of dense protruding nodules. The rash can be sporadic or form huge plaques. Their color ranges from pink to grayish. The growth period for nodules is 5 to 12 weeks.The patient may complain of itching and swelling of the areas with rashes.

After that, the stage of stabilization and gradual dying off of the nodules begins – it disappears within 3-6 months. You can find out more details by making an appointment with a doctor. This can be done on our website https://www.dobrobut.com/ or by calling the indicated phones. A specialist will tell you about many nuances – for example, how to remove molluscum contagiosum on the eyelid.

Diagnostics

As a rule, the diagnosis of infection is not difficult – the patient’s complaints and the appearance of papules are taken into account.In some cases, a nodule biopsy and skin scraping may be ordered.

Differential diagnosis is carried out with:

• pyoderma;

90,025 juvenile warts;

• papillomavirus;

90,025 syphilitic papules;

• lichen planus.

Removal of molluscum contagiosum in a child with laser

The method is very widespread and has a number of significant advantages, among which it is worth noting safety and the minimum exposure time to the affected area (no more than three minutes).After the procedure, the wounds heal quickly without leaving a trace. Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum in a child is ideal. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia.

How to treat molluscum contagiosum on the face

Treatment of infection includes the appointment of drugs that help to strengthen the immune system (vitamins and immunomodulators), and procedures aimed at removing papules. For this purpose, curettage, cryotherapy, laser action, removal with tweezers, peeling and cauterization are used.All methods, including the removal of molluscum contagiosum with tweezers, are painful. For children, they are carried out under local anesthesia.

It is strictly forbidden to independently remove papules (including the juice of garlic or celandine).

Self-medication can spread the infection to healthy skin areas. A specialist should deal with the treatment of the disease – for example, he will tell you how to treat molluscum contagiosum on the face.

Possible complications

With timely treatment and compliance with all the doctor’s recommendations, molluscum contagiosum disappears without a trace.As a rule, papules do not leave behind scars and spots. However, in some cases, there is a reactivation of the infection with the defeat of a large area of ​​the skin and the transition of the disease to a generalized (pronounced) form. The reason for this is a weakening of the immune system and the presence of severe chronic diseases.

Preventive measures

Following simple rules will help to avoid such an unpleasant disease. By the way, the doctor of our clinic will tell you about how to remove molluscum contagiosum on the eyelid at a personal appointment.

Prevention:

• Use of disinfectants for any skin damage;
• Thorough hand washing after visiting public places;

90 025 taking a shower after visiting the pool;

90,025 use of footwear when visiting public baths and swimming pools;

• daily change of underwear;
• Strengthening the immune system.

Follow the recommendations and teach this to the children.

Related services:
Consultation with a dermatologist
Dermatovenereology

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum: what is possible and what is not?

Molluscum contagiosum: treat or not?

Since molluscum contagiosum is a self-limiting viral infection that resolves within 6-18 months, therefore, in healthy people it is often not even treated. However, attitudes can be changed by factors such as:

unaesthetic lesions, underlying atopic disease (eczema), and a desire to prevent transmission.

Treatment for molluscum contagiosum is usually recommended if the lesions are in the genital area (on or near the penis, vulva, vagina, or anus). In such cases, it is strongly recommended to see a doctor, as there is a risk of transmission of the virus through sexual contact.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum is also recommended for people with weakened immune systems, as their skin lesions can remain for up to several years.

No self-medication!

Please be aware that some treatments for molluscum contagiosum and other skin lesions advertised on the internet may be ineffective or even dangerous.For example, many of these products can lead to pain, irritation, and scarring.

Not Try to remove lesions or pasty contents inside lesions yourself . By removing the lesions or the contents of the papules yourself, you can inadvertently infect other parts of the body with the virus and thus spread the lesions to the skin. In addition, by damaging your skin, you can trigger a bacterial infection.

Treatment options for molluscum contagiosum

Several treatment options for molluscum contagiosum are currently available, the most common of which is the physical elimination of lesions.The most effective and fastest of them are recognized:

Cryotherapy – freezing lesions with liquid nitrogen. Each papule is frozen for 5-10 seconds, so that a layer of “frost” forms in this place and on the surrounding skin, after which the virus dies, and the treated area heals after a while. In some cases, with molluscum contagiosum, several cryotherapy sessions may be required before each lesion is completely neutralized. The intervals between treatment sessions are 2-3 weeks.Diathermy (diathermocoagulation): a method opposite to cryotherapy, which consists in deep heating of tissues in the affected area, in fact, “burning out” papules. Requires the use of local anesthetics. Curettage – curettage (piercing the center of the papule and scraping its contents). In doing so, the doctor removes the skin lesions by scraping them with a thin metal spoon-like instrument called a curette. As with diathermy, local anesthesia may be required for curettage. The method can cause slight bleeding, which, however, does not always happen.In the right hands, curettage is a simple, affordable and effective way to get rid of molluscum contagiosum. Laser therapy is a relatively new treatment for molluscum contagiosum. To remove molluscum contagiosum, a pulsed dye laser is used, which uses a powerful beam of light beams to destroy the cells that make up each molluscum lesion. After laser therapy, local discomfort may be felt, and the treated areas may become depigmented (discolored), but over time (over several weeks) these side effects subside.

All of the above treatment options may require local anesthesia and should only be performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Among other things, for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum, the use of several topical (local) agents is being tested, which are available in the form of creams, gels, ointments. However, so far, medical professionals have not accumulated sufficient evidence to show that one such product is more effective than another.

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum (Novolat molluscum contagiosum) is a skin disease caused by viral infections . Usually the skin is affected, sometimes mucous membranes. The most common infection occurs in children between the ages of one and ten.

The causative agent of molluscum contagiosum is a filter virus, pathogenic only for humans, and similar to the smallpox virus.

The disease is transmitted through direct contact with the patient or through the objects that he used. The virus persists in the dust of dwellings; epidemic outbreaks are often observed in children’s groups. The emergence of molluscs is facilitated by non-observance of the rules of personal hygiene and home hygiene, as well as diseases that reduce the body’s defenses (cases of contagious molluscum are described in middle-aged and elderly people with allergic diseases or immunodeficiency states and who have been receiving hormonal and cytostatic drugs for a long time).

Molluscum contagiosum is transmitted sexually, as well as by household (when using a shared bathroom, bed, washcloth, etc.). Often, infection, especially in children, occurs in swimming pools.

The incubation period is from 2 weeks to several months, after which first single, then multiple painless, round, dense nodules of the color of normal skin or pinkish, sometimes with a waxy or pearlescent hue appear on the skin. The sizes of the nodules are from millet grain to a pea.There are no subjective sensations, but sometimes an itching sensation appears in the area of ​​the nodules.

The diagnosis is straightforward. It is based mainly on the clinical picture, in doubtful cases it is confirmed by the results of histological examination (detection of mollusc bodies in the cytoplasm of epidermal cells).

Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum

Treatment is carried out by a dermatologist on an outpatient basis.Each element of the mollusk is carefully removed with surgical tweezers, by electrocoagulation, or scraped out with a sharp Volkmann spoon, followed by lubrication of the lesions with an alcoholic solution of iodine, saturated with a solution of potassium permanganate.

Molluscum contagiosum

A viral disease, the main symptom of which is a rash on the skin of small nodules that do not differ from it in color, inside which there is a substance that resembles cottage cheese in consistency and shade – this is a molluscum contagiosum.The size of each neoplasm usually does not exceed 1-5 mm. This disease is triggered by a virus that belongs to the smallpox category. Molluscum contagiosum affects both adults and children.

The rash can be localized anywhere on the body. The place of their location can be the abdomen, and the pubis, and the genitals, and the inner surface of the thighs, and the neck, and the face, and armpits, and limbs.

It is important to understand that self-squeezing of neoplasms can provoke the spread of the process, infection of the wounds, which will inevitably lead to hyperemia and redness of the skin and the appearance of pustules, and, possibly, much more serious consequences.If you suspect you have a disease such as molluscum contagiosum, then it would be best to immediately contact a qualified dermatovenerologist. Only an experienced specialist – for example, one of those who are receiving appointments at our medical center – will promptly make the correct diagnosis and prescribe a truly effective treatment.

How is molluscum contagiosum transmitted from person to person?

In the vast majority of cases, the transmission of the virus occurs during intercourse – partners come into contact with each other, and this provokes infection.However, it is impossible to exclude the contact-household method of infection – through a towel or other objects with which the patient was in contact. If there are various microtraumas on the surface of the skin, then this significantly increases the risk of contracting this viral disease. In the future, the mollusk spreads by self-infection.

Between the moment of infection and the first external manifestations of molluscum contagiosum, an average of two to seven weeks can elapse. As a result, it is not always possible to accurately determine what was the source of infection.

Symptoms of this viral disease

Papules – this is how dermatovenerologists call rashes that occur on the skin of patients with molluscum contagiosum – can measure from a pinhead to 5 mm in diameter. They can be single, and appear in a small amount – up to a dozen – and pour out in hundreds. In this case, the affected skin can change color to pale pink and acquire a wax-like sheen.

Sometimes several papules can merge into one, which provokes the appearance of giant papules, the central part of which is, as it were, pressed inward.

If you press on the neoplasm, then a curd-like white content is released from the inside of it. It consists of lymphocytes, mollusc bodies and keratinized cells. Sometimes – especially often this happens when a secondary infection is added to the diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum – the affected skin may itch.

Even after the inflammation has passed, deep scars may remain on the skin, so it is better not to let the recovery take its course, but to consult a qualified dermatovenerologist.

Detection and treatment of molluscum contagiosum in ON CLINIC Ryazan

A dermatovenerologist diagnoses this disease based on a visual examination. In rare cases, additional histological examination is required to confirm the diagnosis.

The only possible effective treatment for molluscum contagiosum is surgical removal of the rash. Usually, dozens of neoplasms are removed in one procedure. In addition to manual removal, they also apply:

• Cryodestruction of papules, or their destruction by freezing;
• destruction of neoplasms using a directed beam of high-frequency radio waves.

In order to avoid further spread of the manifestations of molluscum contagiosum, the doctor prescribes various antiviral drugs in tablet form, as well as in the form of topical agents – creams and ointments. In addition, prevention of contagious molluscum infection is necessary, which consists in strict observance of hygiene rules both at home and in public places. This is especially true for saunas, swimming pools and gyms.

In the dermatovenerology department of our medical center, experienced doctors promptly identify and successfully treat various skin diseases, such as molluscum contagiosum, acne, warts, ichthyosis.You can sign up for a consultation at any convenient time.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum | State Scientific Center for Laser Medicine named after OK. Skobelkina

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum: clinical picture, symptomatology, diagnosis.

Molluscum contagiosum is a chronic skin infection caused by the DNA virus Molluscipox Molluscum contagiosum virus, which is pathogenic only for humans.Affecting mainly children of preschool and early school age, molluscum contagiosum manifests itself as characteristic rashes in the face and extremities in the form of waxy, painless flesh-colored papules with an umbilical depression in the center. When pressing on the papules of the mollusc with tweezers or nails, a white curdled mass is released from the central depression.

Infection with molluscum contagiosum virus in children occurs against the background of weakened immunity either through direct contact with the patient, or through household items that were in use.In adults, the molluscum contagiosum virus is often sexually transmitted, which, in fact, determines the place of its localization (abdomen, pubis, thighs, genitals, etc.).

Clinical picture:

• Incubation period: 2 weeks to 6 months;
• Nodule size: 0.5 cm to 0.7 cm;
• Number of knots: from 1 to 10;
• Color: whitish-yellow with a pearlescent tint;
• Shape: hemispherical with a central umbilical impression.

The diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum, as a rule, does not cause difficulties for a specialist. The doctor, on the basis of a characteristic clinical picture, and also (if necessary) on the basis of a microscopic examination of the cheesy masses secreted by the papule, makes a decision on treatment.

Molluscum contagiosum, like most neoplasms of a non-malignant nature, is easily treatable if the clinical picture is not complicated by more serious diseases, in particular, HIV infection.The main condition for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum is, of course, sterility and sufficient professionalism of the doctor performing the papule removal procedure. Modern medicine carries out the removal of molluscum contagiosum for aesthetic reasons, using various methods.

Shellfish treatments:

• Antiviral rubbing;
• Extrusion with tweezers;
• Cryodestruction;
• Electrocoagulation;
• Laser coagulation.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum at the State Research Center for Laser Medicine in Moscow.

The State Scientific Center for Laser Medicine carries out high-quality removal of neoplasms, including those caused by the DNA virus of molluscum contagiosum pathogenic for humans. As a priority in the treatment of this neoplasm, the Center uses highly efficient professional equipment, in particular:

• CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser “Lancet”;
• Device for radio wave surgery “Surgitron”.

Today, laser treatment of molluscum contagiosum is the most effective of all existing methods. This is largely due to the peculiarity of the laser beam to qualitatively influence the affected tissues of the epidermis, carrying out their destruction without thermal and mechanical damage to healthy skin areas.

Peculiarities of removing molluscum contagiosum papules.

As a rule, human infection with molluscum contagiosum occurs against the background of a general weakening of the body’s immune system, therefore, even laser therapy for this disease must be carried out in conjunction with the intake of immunostimulating drugs.In the event that stimulation of the immune system is not carried out, the treatment of molluscum contagiosum will not give guaranteed results, and the neoplasm will continue to recur.

Until complete cure, even during laser removal, the rash of molluscum contagiosum on the skin will be repeated, therefore the laser treatment of the disease itself should be a course of procedures aimed at qualitative elimination of nodular skin rashes.

Molluscum contagiosum, features of laser treatment.

Laser removal of neoplasms carries a number of unique features and advantages over similar procedures. In particular, the use of a laser beam when removing papillomas or warts allows the patient to quickly and efficiently relieve the patient from the physical and aesthetic discomfort caused by the skin manifestations of HPV. A similar situation is also with the actual elimination of the manifestations of the molluscum contagiosum virus.

Advantages of laser treatment in Moscow:

• High efficiency;
• Painlessness;
• Absence of scars;
• Outpatient;
• Lasting result.

Molluscum contagiosum

Not everyone knows what a molluscum contagiosum is. This strange name hides a viral infection that is quite common among children. It is still not completely clear why the disease is called molluscum, but some doctors suggest that the whole thing is in the rash, more precisely in its appearance. Skin rashes are small white or pink nodules that may be pearlescent and have a depression in the center.The rash, depending on the stage of progression of the disease, can be localized throughout the body. As for the second word in the title, it means the contagiousness of the disease.

The cause of the disease

The appearance of molluscum contagiosum is associated with the defeat of the child’s body by a virus that is part of the Pox group. Its transmission from person to person is carried out through household items, water, or through tactile and sexual contact. The risks of infection in people who have any damage on their skin are significantly increased.Despite the fact that the disease mainly affects children, adults can also become infected, especially if there is an immunodeficiency.

Symptoms

The first manifestations of a viral infection can be detected 2-7 weeks after infection, since during this time the incubation period expires (in some cases it can reach six months). Any part of the body can become the site of localization of the rash.

In patients, there is no deterioration in general well-being, but itching may occur in the locations of the foci of inflammation.The number of nodules varies from 1-3 to several dozen.

The cavity of the nodules is filled with a substance that has a curdled structure containing particles of the virus. That is why doctors strongly do not recommend combing, squeezing, opening the rash in any way, since the contents that get on the healthy dermis will provoke self-infection. If there is an accidental injury to the focus, it must be treated with any antiseptic solution. For these purposes, iodine, brilliant green, Chlorhexidine and other agents are suitable.Quite often, the rash opens on its own, after which it heals and leaves no trace on the skin.

Treatment methods for shellfish

In modern medicine, there is no specific treatment for molluscum. The disease goes away on its own after the body activates internal reserves and destroys the virus. The complete healing process can last from several months to a year. During this time, the patient will either have to wait for the natural opening of the nodules, or turn to specialists for their removal.

The latter option is often used by responsible parents in an effort to minimize the risk of spreading the infection to other children. Removal of rashes is indicated for young patients who have other dermatological diseases, in particular atopic dermatitis. In these patients, the skin is very vulnerable to any kind of infection due to impaired barrier functions.

Rules for the removal of shellfish

There are a large number of methods for removing shellfish:

1.The doctor mechanically removes rashes from the skin using tweezers or a curette.

2. In extremely rare situations, it is permissible to remove shellfish by exposure to a laser beam or liquid nitrogen. After such procedures, scars may remain at the site of localization of the nodules.

3. It is possible to clean the epidermis from the rash with the help of chemicals. For these purposes, potassium hydroxide, a ready-made solution of acids, cantharidin are used.

When treating molluscum contagiosum in children without concomitant pathologies, antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, interferons are not used.The process of removing nodules does not kill the virus itself, but limits its spread.

Key facts

What you need to know about molluscum contagiosum:

• infectious disease of viral etiology, does not harm health;
• infection occurs through contaminated objects or through tactile contact from person to person;
• the disease is completely cured within about a year, without drug therapy;
• To prevent the spread of rashes to clean skin areas, they can be removed.