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Molluscum Contagiosum in Adults: Condition, Treatments, and Pictures – Overview

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Information for
AdultsTeen

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Images of Molluscum Contagiosum

Overview

Molluscum contagiosum is a common painless and usually harmless viral infection of the skin. Although it is painless and usually goes away after several months, some cases can last a few years. Molluscum can spread to surrounding skin by scratching or rubbing and can spread to others by skin-to-skin contact or handling contaminated objects such as towels, toys, and clothing. Poor hygiene and warm, moist climates encourage the spread of molluscum. Use of public or school swimming pools is associated with childhood infections.

Who’s at risk?

Adults and teens are more often infected by molluscum through sexual contact and tend to have genital lesions. Children from age 1–5 are most commonly affected with lesions appearing on the face, neck, arms, armpits, and hands (but usually not the palms). Patients with eczema may be more severely affected by molluscum.

Signs and Symptoms

In adults, the genital, stomach, buttock, and inner thigh areas are more often affected as intimate contact with another is the typical source of infection. Men are more often affected than women. Adults with defective immune systems (such as with HIV) may have severe, extensive infection.

One or more small (1–5 mm) pink, white, or skin-colored, smooth, dome-shaped bumps, often with a tiny dot or depression in the center, occur in clusters and sometimes in a straight line from scratching and self-inoculation. In patients with a defective immune system, bumps can be larger than a nickel.

  • Mild – under 10 spots
  • Moderate – 10–50 spots
  • Severe – over 50 spots

Self-Care Guidelines

Treatment in mild infections is often not required, as molluscum infections goes away on their own. Care should be taken to not scratch or shave the areas. Keep the area covered to avoid transmission of the virus, and avoid sharing clothing, towels, and beds with others. Over-the-counter medications used to treat warts (with salicylic acid) may be helpful in removing the bumps, although these treatments can also be irritating.

When to Seek Medical Care

When there is a moderate or severe infection and there is a concern of spread or concern about appearance, seek medical care.

Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe

  • Removal with freezing (cryosurgery), scraping (curettage), burning (electrocautery), or a laser
  • Application of chemicals (a strong acid or alkali) or Cantharone (an extract from a blister beetle)
  • Prescription of a cream with either tretinoin (derived from vitamin A) or imiquimod (a prescription product also used to treat warts, another type of viral infection)

Trusted Links

MedlinePlus: Sexually Transmitted Diseases
MedlinePlus: Skin Infections
MedlinePlus: Viral Infections
Clinical Information and Differential Diagnosis of Molluscum Contagiosum

References

Bolognia, Jean L. , ed. Dermatology, pp.208, 1266-1267. New York: Mosby, 2003.

Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine. 6th ed. pp.1861, 2114-2116, 2332. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.

Molluscum Contagiosum in Adults: Condition, Treatments, and Pictures – Overview

51965
34

Information for
AdultsTeen

caption goes here…

Images of Molluscum Contagiosum

Overview

Molluscum contagiosum is a common painless and usually harmless viral infection of the skin. Although it is painless and usually goes away after several months, some cases can last a few years. Molluscum can spread to surrounding skin by scratching or rubbing and can spread to others by skin-to-skin contact or handling contaminated objects such as towels, toys, and clothing. Poor hygiene and warm, moist climates encourage the spread of molluscum. Use of public or school swimming pools is associated with childhood infections.

Who’s at risk?

Adults and teens are more often infected by molluscum through sexual contact and tend to have genital lesions. Children from age 1–5 are most commonly affected with lesions appearing on the face, neck, arms, armpits, and hands (but usually not the palms). Patients with eczema may be more severely affected by molluscum.

Signs and Symptoms

In adults, the genital, stomach, buttock, and inner thigh areas are more often affected as intimate contact with another is the typical source of infection. Men are more often affected than women. Adults with defective immune systems (such as with HIV) may have severe, extensive infection.

One or more small (1–5 mm) pink, white, or skin-colored, smooth, dome-shaped bumps, often with a tiny dot or depression in the center, occur in clusters and sometimes in a straight line from scratching and self-inoculation. In patients with a defective immune system, bumps can be larger than a nickel.

  • Mild – under 10 spots
  • Moderate – 10–50 spots
  • Severe – over 50 spots

Self-Care Guidelines

Treatment in mild infections is often not required, as molluscum infections goes away on their own. Care should be taken to not scratch or shave the areas. Keep the area covered to avoid transmission of the virus, and avoid sharing clothing, towels, and beds with others. Over-the-counter medications used to treat warts (with salicylic acid) may be helpful in removing the bumps, although these treatments can also be irritating.

When to Seek Medical Care

When there is a moderate or severe infection and there is a concern of spread or concern about appearance, seek medical care.

Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe

  • Removal with freezing (cryosurgery), scraping (curettage), burning (electrocautery), or a laser
  • Application of chemicals (a strong acid or alkali) or Cantharone (an extract from a blister beetle)
  • Prescription of a cream with either tretinoin (derived from vitamin A) or imiquimod (a prescription product also used to treat warts, another type of viral infection)

Trusted Links

MedlinePlus: Sexually Transmitted Diseases
MedlinePlus: Skin Infections
MedlinePlus: Viral Infections
Clinical Information and Differential Diagnosis of Molluscum Contagiosum

References

Bolognia, Jean L. , ed. Dermatology, pp.208, 1266-1267. New York: Mosby, 2003.

Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine. 6th ed. pp.1861, 2114-2116, 2332. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.

Molluscum Contagiosum | Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What does molluscum contagiosum look like?

The skin develops small lumps (mollusca) which are pearly-white or slightly pink. Each lump (molluscum) looks like a small swelling on the skin and is round, firm and about 2-5 mm across. A tiny dimple often develops on the top of each molluscum. If you squeeze a molluscum, a white cheesy fluid comes out. In most cases fewer than 30 mollusca develop.

Sometimes many mollusca develop over various parts of the skin. They tend to occur in groups or clusters. Any part of the body can be affected but it is rare on the palms and soles.

What causes molluscum contagiosum?

It is caused by a virus which can be passed on by skin-to-skin contact. You can also be infected by touching things that have been contaminated by the virus. For example, by sharing towels, flannels or soft toys that have been used by someone who has molluscum contagiosum. Once one area of skin is affected the rash can spread to other areas of your skin. However, most people are resistant (immune) to this virus. Therefore, most of those who come into contact with affected people do not develop molluscum contagiosum.

In adults sometimes the virus is passed on during the close skin-to-skin contact of having sex. If it is passed on whilst having sex then the first mollusca to appear tend to be on the skin of the lower tummy (abdomen) and around the penis, vagina or back passage (anus). If this occurs then you should consider being checked out for other sexually transmitted infections. You can attend a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic for tests and do not need a referral from your GP.

Who gets molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum can affect anyone of any age. It is most common in children and mostly happens in children aged 1-4 years. However, it can also (much less commonly) affect adults. People whose immune systems are not working as well as usual are more likely to get it. (For example, people with AIDS, or people who are having chemotherapy or steroid treatment.)

How does molluscum contagiosum develop?

The small lumps (mollusca) on the skin usually develop 2-8 weeks after you become infected with the virus. Typically, each lump (molluscum) lasts a few weeks or months, crusts over and then goes. However, new ones tend to appear as old ones are going, as the virus spreads to other areas of skin. Therefore, crops of mollusca may appear to come and go for several months.

It commonly takes 12-18 months before the last of the mollusca goes completely. Occasionally, the condition lasts longer than two years – sometimes as long as five years. For some people, the main concern is that the mollusca can look unsightly. Most children are not bothered by it.

Is molluscum contagiosum serious?

The small lumps (mollusca) on the skin are not usually itchy, painful, or serious. A scar is not usually left when they go but sometimes a tiny dent or mark remains. In a few people the skin looks lighter in the places where mollusca have been. Occasionally, the skin next to a lump (molluscum) becomes infected with germs (bacteria). This can be treated with antibiotic creams or medicines. Rarely, a molluscum on an eyelid causes eye inflammation. (See a doctor if any eye symptoms develop related to a molluscum.) After an episode of molluscum contagiosum has cleared away, you will normally be immune to the virus and further episodes only occur rarely.

If you develop a very large number of mollusca (hundreds) or the mollusca are larger than normal, it could be a marker of an underlying problem with your immune system. This may need specialised assessment.

Can infection with molluscum contagiosum be prevented?

The chance of passing on the molluscum contagiosum virus to others is small, and it is not serious anyway. Therefore, there is no need to keep children with molluscum contagiosum off school, or away from swimming pools, etc. There is no need for adults to keep away from gyms or other people.

To reduce the chance of passing it on to others, it is sensible not to share towels, clothes, soft toys, or bathwater if you have molluscum contagiosum. Also, try to avoid skin-to-skin contact with other people (for example, by covering affected areas with clothing). For adults who have the small lumps (mollusca) on the skin, a condom should be used during sex. This will not completely stop skin-to-skin spread but will reduce the chance of passing it on considerably.

Try not to scratch the mollusca, as this may increase the risk of spreading the rash to other areas of the skin. Molluscum contagiosum can be passed on to other people (is contagious) until the last lump (molluscum) has gone.

What is the treatment for molluscum contagiosum?

It is usually best not to treat, particularly in children

This is because:

  • The small lumps (mollusca) on the skin will usually go away without treatment within 12-18 months. Having the rash does not limit your activities such as going to school, sports, swimming, etc.
  • Many of the treatments can be painful (such as liquid nitrogen).
  • Some treatments have a risk of burning the surrounding skin.
  • All treatments have a small risk of scarring the skin. Scarring rarely occurs if the mollusca are left to go away on their own.
  • There is no really good evidence that any treatment makes a big difference to how long the mollusca last.

Treatment options if needed

  • There is no convincing evidence yet that any one treatment works best.
  • Sometimes treatment is wanted, if the lesions are particularly unsightly or troublesome, or if they are spreading very widely. You should discuss this with your GP.
  • Sometimes mollusca are frozen with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy).
  • Creams and lotions may be used. As previously stated, so far doctors are not sure which is the best one, or even if some of them have any effect at all. Options used include:
    • Benzoyl peroxide.
    • Hydrogen peroxide.
    • Potassium hydroxide.
    • Iodine preparations.
    • Imiquimod cream. (Prescribed occasionally by skin specialists, particularly in people who have problems with their immune system.)
  • Pulsed dye laser therapy. (Blasting the mollusca with special laser beams. Occasionally used by skin specialists.)
  • If the skin around the mollusca becomes itchy or infected, your GP can prescribe creams for this.

Molluscum contagiosum – NHS

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral infection that affects the skin. Around 9 out of 10 cases happen in children although it can occur at any age.

MC is generally a harmless condition that normally gets better in a few months without any specific treatment.

However, it’s common for the condition to spread around the body, so it can take up to 18 months or more for the condition to clear completely.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum (MC)

Usually, the only symptom of MC is a number of small, firm, raised papules (spots) on the skin with a characteristic small dimple in the middle. The spots are not painful, but can be itchy.

The spots may develop in small clusters and can be spread across different parts of the body. They’re most often found in the armpit, behind the knees or on the groin.

MC can affect a person on more than 1 occasion, but this is uncommon.

Credit:

When to seek medical advice

See a GP if you notice the spots associated with MC. They’re usually easy to recognise, so they should be able to diagnose the condition without the need for further tests.

If the GP thinks the infection may be caused by something other than MC, they may want to:

They may refer you to a specialist in hospital if you have:

  • spots on your eyelids, near your eye, or your eye is red or painful
  • HIV and your symptoms are severe
  • a weakened immune system for another reason – such as receiving chemotherapy

Causes of molluscum contagiosum (MC)

MC is caused by a virus known as the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV).

This virus can be spread through:

  • close direct contact – such as touching the skin of an infected person
  • touching contaminated objects – such as towels, flannels, toys and clothes
  • sexual contact – this includes intimate physical contact as well as sexual intercourse

If you become infected by the virus and spots appear on your skin, the virus can also spread to other areas.

It’s not known exactly how long someone with MC is contagious for, but it’s thought the contagious period may last up until the last spot has disappeared.

Treating molluscum contagiosum (MC)

Routine treatment for MC, particularly in children, is generally not recommended because:

  • the infection usually clears up on its own
  • the infection does not normally cause any symptoms other than the spots
  • the infection does not usually interfere with everyday activities, such as going to work, swimming or playing sports
  • treatments can be mildly painful and may cause scarring or damage to the surrounding skin

Treatment is usually only recommended for older children and adults when the spots are particularly unsightly and affect quality of life, or for people with weakened immune systems.

In such cases, treatments that may be offered include:

  • liquids, gels or creams that are applied directly to the skin
  • minor procedures such as cryotherapy (where the spots are removed by freezing them)

Preventing the spread of molluscum contagiosum (MC)

Although MC is infectious, the chance of passing it on to others during normal activities is small.

It’s not necessary for you to stay away from work or your child to stay away from school or nursery, or to stop doing activities such as swimming if you have MC.

However, you should take some steps to avoid spreading the virus to other people. You should:

  • avoid sharing towels, flannels and clothing
  • avoid squeezing or scratching the spots – as well as increasing the risk of the infection spreading, this can cause pain, bleeding and can lead to scarring
  • keep affected areas of skin covered with clothing whenever possible – a waterproof bandage can be put over the area if you go swimming
  • avoid sharing baths

Using a condom while having sex can reduce the risk of passing on MC during sexual contact.

Complications of molluscum contagiosum (MC)

MC rarely causes any other problems but complications can occasionally occur. These include:

  • the spots may become infected by bacteria – which may require treatment with antibiotics
  • scarring – after MC has healed and cleared, small patches of paler skin or tiny indented scars may be left behind; this is more likely if the spots became infected or after treatment
  • eye problems – a secondary eye infection may develop, such as conjunctivitis or keratitis, which may cause your eyes to become sore and sensitive to light

See a GP if you suspect a bacterial infection or experience any eye problems such as eye pain or redness. Signs of a bacterial infection can include redness, swelling and pain in the skin and underlying tissue.

Page last reviewed: 03 September 2020
Next review due: 03 September 2023

Molluscum Contagiosum (for Parents) – Nemours Kidshealth

What Is Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin rash caused by a virus. The rash has small clear or flesh-colored bumps. The bumps can spread from one part of the body to another or from person to person. For most kids, the rash goes away on its own in 6–12 months, but can take longer.

Molluscum contagiosum (mol-US-kum kon-tay-jee-OH-sum), or molluscum for short, usually goes away on its own without medical treatment.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Molluscum?

The rash is the telltale sign of molluscum. Its bumps:

  • Start as very small spots about the size of a pinhead.
  • Grow over a few weeks. They can be as large as a pea or pencil eraser.
  • Are soft and smooth and may have a small dent in the center.
  • Often are painless, but can get itchy, sore, red, and/or swollen.
  • Can get infected with bacteria if kids scratch or pick at them.
  • Can appear alone or in groups, or rows. Most people get between 1 and 20 bumps.
  • Can show up almost anywhere on the skin except for the palms and soles. In kids, they’re most often on the trunk, arms, and face.

What Causes Molluscum?

The molluscum virus causes the rash after it enters a small break in the skin. Bumps usually appear 2–6 weeks after that.

The molluscum virus spreads easily from skin touching skin that has bumps. Kids also can get it by touching things that have the virus on them, such as toys, clothing, towels, and bedding. Sexually active teens and adults with bumps in the groin or inner thighs can spread them to partners.

Who Gets Molluscum?

Molluscum most often happens in healthy kids between 1 and 12 years old. But it also happens in:

  • athletes who have close contact, such as wrestlers, or athletes who share equipment, such as gymnasts
  • people with health problems treated with long-term steroid medicine use

How Is Molluscum Diagnosed?

Doctors can usually tell a rash is molluscum by looking at it. Sometimes they might suggest that kids see a dermatologist (skin doctor), but most kids won’t need this.

Can Molluscum Be Prevented?

Kids with molluscum can still go to daycare, school, and sports. To prevent the spread of molluscum to other places on their body and to other people, they should:

  • Wash their hands well and often with soap and water.
  • Cover the bumps with clothing or a bandage.
  • Cover the bumps with a watertight bandage before swimming or doing activities with close contact (like wrestling) or shared equipment (like gymnastics).
  • Not share towels or pool toys.
  • Not shave over areas that have bumps.
  • Not touch, scratch, or rub the bumps.

How Is Molluscum Treated?

Most of the time, molluscum clears up on its own without treatment. Each bump goes away in about 2–3 months. New bumps can appear as old ones go away, so it can take 6-12 months (and sometimes longer) for molluscum to fully go away.

Sometimes, doctors remove the bumps or help them go away more quickly. To do this, they can:

  • Freeze the bumps off.
  • Scrape or cut the bumps off.
  • Put a chemical on the bumps to make the body fight them away faster.
  • Put medicine on the bumps or give medicine to swallow.

Many doctors don’t recommend these treatments for kids, though. That’s because they can be painful and burn, blister, stain, or scar the skin. When deciding to treat a rash, they consider where the bumps are and if they’re causing itching, pain, or other problems.

How Can Parents Help?

To avoid molluscum and other skin infections, have your kids follow these tips:

  • Wash hands well and often with soap and water.
  • Do not share towels or clothing.
  • Do not share kickboards and other water toys.
  • Do not touch or scratch bumps or blisters on their skin or other people’s skin.

Talk with your child’s doctor about the pros and cons of treating molluscum. The rash usually doesn’t cause long-term problems or leave scars. Often, the best way to handle it is to be patient, as hard as that might be.

Where Can I Get Treated For Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum often goes away on its own without any treatment. But a doctor can also remove the bumps or give you medicine to put on them.

What’s the treatment for molluscum contagiosum?

If you have molluscum contagiosum, a doctor can remove the growths by freezing, draining, or using a laser to remove them. They can also give you a prescription for a medicine cream that you’ll apply at home. Treating molluscum contagiosum bumps is a lot like treating warts.

Molluscum contagiosum will usually go away on its own after a while, so some people choose not to treat or remove the growths. But if you don’t treat molluscum contagiosum, it usually takes 6-12 months for the bumps to clear up. During that time, you could spread the virus to other people.

Once the bumps are gone, the molluscum contagiosum virus is totally gone from your body — it won’t come back later. But you can get bumps again if you get another molluscum contagiosum infection in the future.

What do I do after treatment?

If you treat your growths with medicine or have them removed by your doctor, it’s important to take good care of your skin afterward.

  • Keep the area clean. Use a different towel for drying other parts of your body after a shower or a bath.

  • Don’t scratch the area you got treated.

  • Wash your hands after touching the area that was treated.

  • Avoid having sex if it’s uncomfortable.

Ice packs and taking a pain reliever like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with any pain or discomfort you may have.

More questions from patients:

Is there a molluscum contagiosum home remedy?

No, there isn’t any molluscum contagiosum home remedy that actually works. In fact, be wary of any treatments you find on the internet. They may not work and can end up being harmful, instead.

Molluscum contagiosum is a virus that affects your skin. It may look like small, waxy, round growths. If you get molluscum contagiosum, your doctor or nurse will treat you in their office or give you medicine to use at home.

Here are some ways to make treatment easier:

  • Keep the area clean. Use a different towel for drying other parts of your body after a shower or a bath.

  • Don’t scratch the area that’s been treated.

  • Wash your hands after touching the area that’s been treated.

  • Avoid sex if it’s uncomfortable.

  • Use cold compresses or take pain medicine to relieve discomfort.

Some people choose not to treat the growths because molluscum contagiosum can go away on its own. But left untreated, it takes 6 months to 5 years for all the growths to go away. In that time, you can spread the virus to other parts of your body or other people.

If you notice any growths, if your partner has been diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum, or if your partner has growths, check in with your doctor or nurse or your local Planned Parenthood health center.

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Molluscum contagiosum | healthdirect

On this page

What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a common, generally harmless, skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). The virus causes small, raised spots that can be spread by skin-to-skin contact. It is more common in children, although it can affect people of any age.

What are the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum?

When the spots appear, they look like white pimples. Over time they become round, pink or pearl-coloured lumps with a hard core and often a dimple in the centre. The spots are usually very small, about 3­­ to 6 mm, but they can be as large as 30 mm.

Molluscum is painless but can be itchy, especially if the person also has eczema.

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection where spots appear, which start out looking like pimples.

How is molluscum contagiosum treated?

Molluscum contagiosum usually heals in about 6 to 18 months without any treatment, although people with immune system problems can have the spots for several years. The spots usually heal without leaving a scar, although aggressive treatment and scratching can leave a mark similar to a chickenpox scar.

It is important to see your doctor for correct diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum. Usually no treatment is usually, but your doctor might suggest treatment to improve the way the spots look, to prevent spread, and to reduce the risk of scarring.

Treatment may involve:

  • freezing the spots off with liquid nitrogen
  • squeezing them gently and pricking with a needle
  • surgically scraping them off
  • using a cream or lotion
  • using wart paint

If the person has irritated skin, that must be treated before the molluscum.

Can molluscum contagiosum be prevented?

Molluscum contagiosum can be spread by touching the spots, although it may be months before spots appear after infection. Molluscum can also be spread to different parts of the body or to other people in bath or pool water, on bath toys, towels, face cloths or clothing.

You can help stop molluscum spreading by:

  • showering rather than bathing
  • washing and drying children’s bath toys after use
  • not sharing towels, face washers or clothing
  • drying the affected area last after showering
  • washing hands thoroughly after touching the spots

People with molluscum can attend school and work because clothing usually covers the affected areas.

Molluscum can also be sexually transmitted. For adults with molluscum on the genital area, transmission to sexual partners can be minimised by using condoms and dental dams, although these do not completely stop it spreading.

If you or your recent sexual partners become infected with molluscum, it’s a good idea to get tested for other sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).

Molluscum contagiosum: photos, symptoms, treatment

What is molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection in which large dense nodules form on the skin, noticeably rising above the surface. It is caused by one of the smallpox viruses.

Photo: Jarrod Erbe / Shutterstock

See what a molluscum contagiosum looks like

Close

These rounded lesions come in all sizes, from a pinhead to a pencil eraser, and can affect any area of ​​the body except except perhaps the soles and palms.The rash is considered relatively safe and most often goes away on its own within 6-12 months after onset.

Where does molluscum contagiosum come from?

The definition “contagious” means that the disease is transmitted by contact of skin with an infected surface.

There are no live mollusks inside the neoplasms. The infection got this name because the contents of the nodules under the microscope look like shells.

Contact can occur when you shake hands with an infected person or, for example, stand very close to each other, touching exposed skin.Molluscum contagiosum is also sexually transmitted: in this case, neoplasms appear on the penis, labia, lower abdomen and inner thighs.

However, most often the infection spreads through towels, bed linen, clothes, shoes, bath sponges, toys. There is a version that the virus can be infected in the pool or when visiting the sauna, bathhouse, and other wet shared areas. But she has not yet found convincing evidence.

How to recognize molluscum contagiosum

The main symptom of molluscum contagiosum is a raised formation on the skin.They are :

  • small – no more than 6 mm in diameter;
  • are flesh colored;
  • usually have a small depression at the top center;
  • sometimes become inflamed and redden;
  • may itch;
  • can be easily removed if combed or accidentally rubbed. Because of this, the virus can infect other areas of the skin.

As the infection spreads, the skin may become inflamed and itchy. If the rash appears on the eyelids, conjunctivitis sometimes occurs.

What to do if you suspect a molluscum contagiosum

If you notice unusual growths on the skin, be sure to consult a physician or a dermatologist right away. The fact is that a nodular rash manifests itself in a variety of diseases, including such serious ones as syphilis or cancer. Therefore, it is simply dangerous to diagnose yourself and rely on that in six months everything will go away by itself.

As for the physician, the experienced specialist will recognize molluscum contagiosum at a glance .Scraping of the infected skin area may only occasionally be necessary.

How to treat molluscum contagiosum

As a rule, nodules are removed. This is not only due to aesthetics. Molluscum contagiosum is highly contagious, which means that a person with such a skin infection is dangerous to others.

To get rid of neoplasms, the doctor uses one of the following methods:

  • scraping. In this case, the growths are removed from the skin using a tool similar to a metal spoon – a curette;
  • cryotherapy.The nodules are frozen with liquid nitrogen, and then they fall off by themselves;
  • laser therapy. Rashes are removed with a laser;
  • Application of special ointments.

Some of the methods can be painful , so local anesthesia will be needed to relieve discomfort.

After the molluscum contagiosum is removed, the person ceases to be contagious.

Read also 💊🦠🧑‍⚕️

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

What you need to know about the removal of molluscum contagiosum

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:

90,038 90,039 skin lesions;

  • decrease in general immunity;
  • non-compliance with sanitary standards;
  • tendency to allergies;
  • intake of hormones and cytostatics;

    • 90,039 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;

      • 90,039 juvenile warts;

    • papillomavirus;

      • 90,039 syphilitic papules;

    • lichen planus.

    Removal of molluscum contagiosum in a child with laser

    The method is very common 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 following 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;
    • taking a shower after visiting the pool;

      • 90,039 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

    Molluscum contagiosum

    Molluscum contagiosum

    Molluscum contagiosum (Novolat molluscum contagiosum) is a skin disease caused by viral infection . 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 conditions 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 normal skin color 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 lesions with an alcoholic solution of iodine, saturated with a solution of potassium permanganate.

    90,000 Removal of genital warts, molluscum contagiosum – Paracelsus Medical Center

    Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin disease, manifested by the appearance of hemispherical nodules with a depression in the center, measuring 1 – 4 mm.

    Infection can occur through direct contact with a sick person or through personal and household items, when visiting gyms, and other public places. The incubation period is different, on average from 1 to 7 weeks, but the rash can not be noticed immediately, and when they are injured, new ones appear.

    The likelihood of infection increases with microdamage to the skin, the presence of concomitant skin diseases (eczema, atopic dermatitis).

    In adults, infection is facilitated by immunodeficiency states (long-term use of glucocorticosteroid drugs and cytostatics, HIV infection).

    In young people, infection with molluscum contagiosum often occurs through sexual contact.

    Rashes are usually not accompanied by subjective sensations, there is a possibility of spontaneous regression within a few months (with normal immunity and no trauma).

    Anogenital (venereal) warts – a viral disease caused by the human papillomavirus and characterized by the appearance of growths on the skin and mucous membranes of the external genital organs, urethra, vagina, cervix, perianal region.

    During the examination, as a rule, HPV type 6.11 is detected, and other types of human papillomavirus that have a high oncogenic risk and require treatment and observation can be simultaneously detected. The incubation period from the moment of infection to clinical manifestations is different. Infection in adults occurs through sexual contact.

    The indication for examination and treatment is the presence of clinical manifestations of the disease.

    A dermatovenerologist diagnoses a disease accompanied by the appearance of papillomas, condylomas, molluscum contagiosum on the skin, gives recommendations for treatment and prevention.Removal, as a rule, is carried out by a surgeon or a gynecological surgeon by electrocoagulation or radio wave destruction.

    90,000 Molluscum Contagiosum – Evidence-Based Medicine for All

    Molluscum contagiosum is a relatively common viral skin infection that results in round, firm, painless bumps ranging from a pinhead to a pencil eraser.If these bumps are scratched or injured, the infection can spread to the surrounding skin.

    Molluscum contagiosum is also transmitted through personal contact and contact with infected objects , is most common in children, but can also affect adults – especially those with immunodeficiency conditions.

    In non-immunocompromised adults, molluscum contagiosum is considered a sexually transmitted infection.

    Skin rashes with molluscum contagiosum usually disappear spontaneously within a year without treatment, but they can also be removed by a doctor.

    INFO: Young people who are sexually active and all adults at increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should receive behavioral counseling to reduce the risk of infection. This is stated in a new clinical guideline issued by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).Read more: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). RISK GROUPS AND SCREENING

    Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum


    Signs and symptoms of molluscum contagiosum – skin rashes (bumps) that are:

    • Convex, round and flesh-colored
    • Small – typically about 1/4 inch (less than 6 millimeters) in diameter
    • Have a small depression (depression) or a point at the top, almost in the very center
    • May turn red and sore
    • May cause itching
    • Easily removed by scratching or rubbing the skin, which can spread the virus to adjacent healthy skin
    • Usually appears on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders and back of the hands in children
    • May be found on the genitals, lower abdomen and inner surface of the upper thighs in adults if the infection is sexually transmitted

    Ways of transmission of molluscum contagiosum

    Molluscum contagiosum virus spreads easily through:

    • Skin contact
    • Contact with contaminated items such as towels
    • Sex with a partner with molluscum contagiosum
    • Scratching or rubbing rashes causing the virus to spread to adjacent skin

    It is not known if molluscum contagiosum virus can be spread in chlorinated water used in swimming pools.Experts speculate that swimmers are more likely to transmit the virus through shared towels; equipment such as diving boards; or through skin-to-skin contact.

    Risk factors

    In people with immunodeficiency disorders, molluscum contagiosum may be more common.

    Complications of molluscum contagiosum

    The rash and the skin around it can be red and inflamed.It is believed to be the body’s immune response to infection. When combing the tubercles, secondary infection is possible. If the rash appears on the eyelids, redness of the eyes (conjunctivitis) may develop.

    Prevention

    To prevent the spread of the virus:

    • Wash your hands. Keeping your hands clean can help prevent the spread of the virus.
    • Try not to touch the rash.Shaving the affected areas can also spread the virus.
    • Do not give anyone your personal items – clothes, towels, combs, etc. Also, do not take these items from other people.
    • Avoid sexual intercourse. If you have molluscum contagiosum on or near your genitals, do not have sex until the rash is healed and completely gone.
    • Cover eruptions.Cover rashes with clothing when near people to prevent direct contact. Cover rashes with a waterproof bandage when swimming.

    Diagnostics

    Your doctor can usually diagnose molluscum contagiosum just by looking at it. If in doubt, the doctor may take a skin scraping from the affected area and examine it under a microscope.

    Treatment

    Molluscum contagiosum usually resolves without treatment in 6 to 12 months. However, the rash may continue to appear for up to five years. Once all the rashes are gone, you are no longer contagious.

    Doctors may recommend removing the rash without waiting for it to go away on its own, especially in adults because it is highly contagious.

    Treating molluscum contagiosum can be painful, therefore anesthetic is sometimes used before the procedure to relieve discomfort. In some cases, a combination of procedures can be used.

    Treatment options:

    • Scraping (curettage)
    • Freezing (cryotherapy)
    • A drug that causes blistering (cantharidin) that causes the bumps to fall off

    90,000 Removal of molluscum contagiosum in St. Petersburg in adults and children

    Molluscum contagiosum is a viral disease characterized by the appearance of nodular eruptions on the skin and mucous membranes.This infection is similar in symptomatology to serious illnesses, so consultation with a doctor is a must. In our center “Danae” in St. Petersburg, you can undergo removal of contagious molluscum. Our specialists will determine the cause of the pathology development and help get rid of unpleasant cosmetic defects.

    Attention! The laser removal procedure is carried out only in the clinic
    on the metro station “Prospect Prosveshcheniya”

    Cost of services

    Appointment (examination, consultation) at a dermatovenerologist, primary (removal of neoplasms) 700
    Reception (examination, consultation) of a dermatovenerologist (after removal of neoplasms) 550
    Laser removal of contagious molluscum, milium, for 1 element 550

    See all prices

    Appointment to a doctor

    Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum

    The disease is caused by a DNA virus of the Poxviridae family, which is similar in structure to the smallpox virus.Most often, the disease is diagnosed in children aged 2-10 years, as well as in adults with weakened immunity.

    A characteristic manifestation of the virus is the appearance of dense eruptions, which have a small diameter and are colored in a light pink color. Nodules are localized in the lower abdomen, on the genitals, pubis and inner thigh. In the photo you can see how the nodules on the skin look.

    The rash is not painful, but it often causes inconvenience to the patient. One of the symptoms of the virus is itching.It often occurs against the background of other infectious diseases. The appearance of rashes indicates a decrease in human immunity, therefore, with the development of formations, you need to undergo an examination of your health.

    Features of the development of pathology

    There are two routes of infection with molluscum contagiosum – contact and sexual. However, it should be noted that the infection does not belong to sexually transmitted diseases. According to the WHO classification, it is defined as a sexually transmitted disease.

    The incubation period can range from 14-15 days to several months.Signs of the disease can persist for up to 4-5 years. Often, the rash goes away on its own, but in this case, a relapse is possible. Therefore, many doctors insist on removing all skin growths.

    Methods for removing formations

    There are several treatments for skin rashes:

    • Cryotherapy. The technique using liquid nitrogen allows you to painlessly freeze neoplasms and achieve a good cosmetic result. First, the treated area of ​​the skin turns white, during the day, cell death occurs.Complete healing of the skin occurs in about 1-2 weeks. The main advantage of this manipulation is its low cost.
    • Thermocoagulation. The essence of the method lies in the effect of a high frequency electric discharge on the skin. Radio waves, which are formed when electricity is supplied, provoke heating of soft tissues, have a cauterizing effect. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, as it is painful.
    • Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum is considered the most effective treatment today.The procedure is suitable for both adults and children. The main advantage of laser therapy is its speed and non-trauma. The manipulation lasts about half an hour, and the remaining wounds at the site of the rash heal quickly enough, after about 1-2 weeks.

    In our medical center “Danae” we use all the listed methods of treatment. Our specialist will select the most suitable procedure for you, which is guaranteed to get rid of unpleasant manifestations of a viral infection.

    Remember that in no case should you be treated for a disease on your own.Molluscum contagiosum in its symptoms is similar to many more serious diseases: smallpox, lichen planus and even syphilis.

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    90,000 Molluscum contagiosum: what is it and how to get rid of it? | Healthy life | Health

    Small pimples of a whitish hue can cause a lot of inconvenience, and therefore require careful attention to themselves and proper treatment.

    The diagnosis “molluscum contagiosum” has nothing to do with living mollusks and living creatures in general.This virus got its name because of the contents of the pimple – it is a white mass interspersed with keratinized cells of the skin epithelium. Under the microscope, this mass vaguely resembles the shells of mollusks.

    What is good – this disease does not spread beyond the surface of the skin. But a carrier of molluscum contagiosum can easily become a distributor of it. In addition, getting rid of pimples is also important because of the unpleasant symptoms and aesthetic effect.

    Risk group – children

    Most often, molluscum contagiosum affects children from one to ten years old, acquiring it through contact with other children.In adults, infection is much less common. You can get infected with molluscum contagiosum on the beach, in a sandpit, in a pool, or using someone else’s clothing. In adults, as a rule, infection occurs during sexual intercourse, therefore, rashes occur on the genitals, on the inner thighs, on the abdomen. In children, pimples-nodules pour out on the face, arms, shoulders, chest and abdomen.

    It is rather difficult to establish the exact source of infection, because the disease can manifest itself both after 2 weeks and after 3 months.

    Symptoms

    Small pimples themselves are a sign of the disease (from 2 to 5 mm in diameter), usually the number of nodules does not exceed twenty. Outwardly, these are pimples with a dimple in the center, dome-shaped and flesh-colored, at first dense, then they become softer. The nodules seem to be filled with a white, waxy substance.

    Usually pimples do not cause pain, but sometimes they are accompanied by itching.

    In a special risk group, people with reduced immunity and AIDS patients – their damage associated with exposure to molluscum contagiosum may be more pronounced.

    Treatment

    Molluscum contagiosum must not be dried or damaged. Also, if you have a disease, you cannot take a hot bath – only a warm shower is permissible. You can not wash with a washcloth and wipe the skin with a towel – the skin needs only to be lightly blotted. And it is not recommended to visit the pool.

    This disease does not require specific treatment – nodules, as a rule, go away by themselves in 2-3 months without any treatment. They may reappear after 6–8 months, but after that they also disappear.

    Molluscs are removed only for aesthetic reasons. Molluscum contagiosum is removed with tweezers, after which it is cauterized with hydrogen peroxide and iodine. With self-removal of pimples, there is a high risk of squeezing out their contents, which cannot be done – this way you can spread the infection and get new lesions. Therefore, it is better to carry out this procedure with a specialist under sterile conditions. The doctor will prescribe antiviral drugs and immunostimulants that increase the body’s resistance to the virus.

    By the way, pimples are removed not only with tweezers, but also with the help of liquid nitrogen, laser, cauterization with chemical solutions.

    After correct removal of nodules within 4 days, it is necessary to lubricate the affected area with iodine 1-2 times a day.

    For children, shellfish are usually not removed, as the procedure is quite painful.

    Prevention

    The mainstay of treatment for molluscum contagiosum is measures to prevent its spread. For this you need:

    – limit contact of the sick person with other people,

    – daily ironing or steaming the patient’s linen,

    – observe personal hygiene: do not use other people’s washcloths, towels, clothes.

    See also:

    .