What are the common penile anatomical variants. How to distinguish between normal penile features and pathological conditions. What are the characteristics of genital warts compared to normal variants. How to identify and manage various penile lumps and bumps.

Common Penile Anatomical Variants: What’s Normal?

Understanding the difference between normal penile anatomical variants and pathological conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Let’s explore some common normal variants:

Pearly Penile Papules (PPPs)

Pearly penile papules are small, dome-shaped lumps that appear in neat rows around the corona of the glans penis. They occur in up to 20% of men and are often mistaken for warts. How can you identify PPPs?

• Occur in single or multiple orderly rings encircling the corona
• Numerous, uniform, and symmetrical
• 1-3 mm in length
• Dome-shaped appearance

Under dermoscopy, PPPs display delicate, regular vessels, distinguishing them from genital warts. Histologically, they resemble angiokeratomas.

Fordyce Spots

Fordyce spots are visible sebaceous glands that appear along the shaft of the penis. They often become noticeable during adolescence. What are the key characteristics of Fordyce spots?

• More visible when skin is stretched or during erection
• May appear on the scrotum as well
• Can sometimes express a thick, chalky discharge when squeezed
• May also be present on other areas, such as the vermillion border of the lips

The presence of Fordyce spots in other areas can help reassure patients that they are a normal anatomical variant requiring no treatment.

Tyson Glands

Tyson glands are ectopic sebaceous glands that appear as paired openings on either side of the frenulum. As normal structures, they do not require any treatment.

Angiokeratomas

Angiokeratomas are collections of enlarged capillaries that can appear on the scrotum and penis. What should you know about angiokeratomas?

• Can occur alone or in multiples
• Appear as deep-red or purple papules
• Usually found on the scrotum, but can also occur on the penis
• Tend to advance with age
• Treatment is only necessary if they bleed frequently

Lymphocoeles

Lymphocoeles present as palpable cord-like structures that can occur vertically or horizontally on the penis. They are typically temporary and resolve on their own.

Distinguishing Normal Variants from Pathological Conditions

Differentiating between normal anatomical variants and pathological conditions can be challenging, even after a thorough examination. How can healthcare providers make this distinction?

• Look for symmetry, smooth surfaces, and well-circumscribed borders in normal variants
• Normal variants should not cause pain or be associated with inguinal lymphadenopathy
• Consider the patient’s history, including HPV vaccination status and sexual contacts
• Use dermoscopy to examine vascular patterns and surface characteristics
• Observe changes over time – normal variants typically show minimal or no change

Access to a bank of images, such as those available on the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre website (www.stiatlas.org), can be invaluable for both diagnosis and patient education.

Genital Warts vs. Normal Variants: Key Differences

With the introduction of HPV vaccination programs, the incidence of genital warts has decreased significantly. However, it remains important to distinguish between warts and normal variants. What are the characteristic features of genital warts compared to normal anatomical variants?

Molluscum Contagiosum: A Common Viral Infection

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that can affect the genital area. How does it present, and what should healthcare providers know about it?

• Caused by a poxvirus
• Presents as small, flesh-colored or pink, dome-shaped papules
• Often have a central depression or dimple
• Can be spread through sexual contact or autoinoculation
• May resolve spontaneously but can persist for months to years

Treatment options for molluscum contagiosum include cryotherapy, curettage, and topical medications. In immunocompetent individuals, the infection may resolve on its own without treatment.

Penile Folliculitis: When Hair Follicles Become Inflamed

Folliculitis is an inflammation of hair follicles that can occur on the penis and surrounding areas. What are the key features of penile folliculitis?

• Presents as small, red, and sometimes pus-filled bumps around hair follicles
• Can be caused by bacterial infection, irritation from shaving, or tight clothing
• May be itchy or painful
• Usually resolves on its own but can sometimes require antibiotic treatment

To prevent folliculitis, advise patients to practice good hygiene, avoid tight clothing, and use proper shaving techniques if they choose to remove pubic hair.

Scabies: A Parasitic Infestation of the Genital Area

Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. How does scabies present in the genital area, and what should healthcare providers look for?

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Small, red, raised bumps or lines (burrows) on the skin
• In men, commonly affects the penis, scrotum, and surrounding areas
• May be accompanied by a rash on other parts of the body

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical presentation and microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Treatment involves topical or oral medications to kill the mites, along with thorough cleaning of clothing and bedding.

The Impact of HPV Vaccination on Genital Warts

The introduction of the National Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Program has significantly reduced the incidence of genital warts in Australia. What are the key points to consider regarding HPV vaccination and genital warts?

• Dramatic decline in genital warts among young heterosexuals since 2007
• Extension of vaccination program to young men expected to further reduce incidence
• Decline anticipated in homosexual men as well
• Genital lumps in young adults are now less likely to be warts

This shift in epidemiology underscores the importance of recognizing normal anatomical variants and considering other causes of genital lumps and bumps.

Diagnostic Approaches for Penile Lumps and Bumps

Accurate diagnosis of penile lumps and bumps requires a systematic approach. What diagnostic tools and techniques can healthcare providers employ?

• Thorough patient history, including sexual history and vaccination status
• Careful physical examination, noting the appearance, distribution, and symmetry of lesions
• Use of dermoscopy to examine vascular patterns and surface characteristics
• Application of dilute acetic acid to identify potential HPV-related lesions
• Biopsy for histological examination in cases of diagnostic uncertainty
• Molecular testing for HPV or other pathogens when indicated

In some cases, a period of observation may be necessary to differentiate between normal variants and pathological conditions based on changes over time.

Patient Education and Reassurance

Educating patients about normal penile anatomy and common variants is crucial for alleviating anxiety and promoting genital health awareness. How can healthcare providers effectively communicate this information to patients?

• Use visual aids, such as anatomical diagrams or curated image banks
• Explain the prevalence of normal variants in the general population
• Discuss the impact of HPV vaccination on the incidence of genital warts
• Provide clear information on when to seek medical attention for genital concerns
• Address any misconceptions or myths about penile appearance and function

Emphasize that diversity in genital appearance is normal and that most anatomical variants do not require treatment or cause health problems.

When to Refer: Complex Cases and Specialist Consultation

While many penile lumps and bumps can be managed in primary care settings, some cases may require specialist consultation. When should healthcare providers consider referral?

• Persistent or enlarging lesions despite initial treatment
• Atypical presentations that do not fit clearly into common diagnostic categories
• Suspicion of malignancy or pre-malignant conditions
• Recurrent or treatment-resistant infections
• Cases causing significant psychological distress to the patient
• Need for specialized diagnostic procedures or treatments

Early referral to a dermatologist, urologist, or sexual health specialist can ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate management of complex cases.

Preventive Strategies for Penile Health

Promoting good penile health and preventing infections or complications is an important aspect of patient care. What preventive strategies can healthcare providers recommend?

• Encourage HPV vaccination for eligible individuals
• Promote safe sex practices, including consistent condom use
• Advise on proper genital hygiene, including gentle cleaning and drying
• Discuss the potential risks of pubic hair removal and proper techniques if desired
• Encourage regular self-examination and prompt reporting of new or changing lesions
• Provide information on sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening

Emphasize the importance of regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers about genital health concerns.

Future Directions in Penile Health Research and Care

As our understanding of penile health evolves, new research directions and care approaches are emerging. What are some areas of focus for future developments in this field?

• Improved diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging techniques and molecular tests
• Development of more effective and less invasive treatments for genital warts and other infections
• Further research into the long-term impact of HPV vaccination on genital health
• Investigation of potential links between penile appearance variants and other health conditions
• Development of standardized guidelines for the evaluation and management of penile lumps and bumps
• Exploration of psychosocial impacts of penile appearance concerns and interventions to address them

Ongoing research and clinical innovation will continue to enhance our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent penile health issues effectively.

Understanding the diverse range of normal penile anatomical variants and distinguishing them from pathological conditions is essential for providing high-quality patient care. By employing a systematic approach to diagnosis, utilizing available tools and resources, and staying informed about current research and guidelines, healthcare providers can effectively manage penile lumps and bumps while providing reassurance and education to their patients. As the field of sexual health continues to evolve, particularly in light of successful HPV vaccination programs, maintaining an up-to-date knowledge base and a patient-centered approach will be crucial for addressing the complex landscape of penile health concerns.

Penile appearance, lumps and bumps

Background

Even after a thorough examination it can be difficult to distinguish a normal penile anatomical variant from pathology needing treatment.

Objective

This article aims to assist diagnosis by outlining a series of common penile anatomical variants and comparing them to common pathological conditions.

Discussion

The problems considered include pearly penile papules, penile sebaceous glands (Fordyce spots), Tyson glands, angiokeratomas of the scrotum, lymphocoele, penile warts, molluscum contagiosum, folliculitis and scabies.

Since the introduction of the National Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Program for young women in 2007, the incidence of genital warts has fallen dramatically in young Australian heterosexuals.¹ With the extension of this vaccination program to young men, it is expected that the incidence of genital warts will fall further and will also decline in homosexual men: genital lumps in young adults are now less likely to be warts. This article aims to assist diagnosis by outlining some common anatomical variants and comparing them to a few pathological conditions. There are other conditions that may cause genital pathology that are not covered, and treatment is not discussed in detail.

Most anatomical variants share characteristic features that help with recognition, such as symmetry, a smooth surface and well circumscribed border. Normal variants should not produce any symptoms of pain or be associated with inguinal lymphadenopathy. Table 1 outlines some typical features that are suggestive of genital warts. Despite these features, it can sometimes still be difficult to be sure, especially if the appearance is atypical. Having access to a bank of images, such as those on the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre website (www.stiatlas.org), is very useful. These images can also be used to reassure patients and educate them on the differences between normal anatomy and conditions that would require treatment.

Normal variants

Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules (PPPs) are tiny lumps seen in neat rows around the corona of the glans penis (Figure 1). They can occur as a single row, or in multiple orderly rings encircling the corona. PPPs are numerous, uniform, symmetrical and dome shaped, and vary from 1 to 3 mm in length. PPPs occur in up to 20% of men and are frequently mistaken for warts, but bear no relationship to them.^2,3 In difficult cases dermoscopy can be useful, as PPPs will have delicate, regular vessels that are distinct from genital warts. Histologically, PPPs resemble angiokeratomas.

Figure 1. Pearly penile papules

Fordyce spots

Fordyce spots are visible sebaceous glands and occur along the shaft of the penis (Figure 2).⁴ They often appear in adolescence. Fordyce spots are more easily visible when the skin is stretched, and many patients may describe them as a lump that appears during an erection. Spots may also appear on the scrotum. Some patients may be able to express a thick, chalky discharge by squeezing the lump. Fordyce spots may also appear in other areas such as at the vermillion border of the lips when, if seen, can help reassure the patient that they are a normal anatomical variant that does not require any treatment.

Figure 2. Fordyce spots (penile sebaceous glands)

Tyson glands

Tyson glands are ectopic sebaceous glands that appear in pairs as openings on either side of the frenulum (Figure 3). As they are normal structures, treatment is not required.⁵

Figure 3. Tyson glands

Angiokeratomas

Angiokeratomas can occur alone or in multiples and appear as deep-red or purple papules, usually over the scrotum. They can also appear on the penis (Figure 4). Angiokeratomas advance with age and represent a collection of enlarged capillaries.⁶ Treatment is only required if they bleed frequently.

Figure 4. Angiokeratomas of the scrotum

Lymphocoeles

Lymphocoeles present as a palpable cord-like structure that can occur vertically or horizontally at the shaft of the penis (Figure 5). They are associated with friction and increased sexual activity. Lymphocoeles are probably due to sclerosing lymphangitis, an inflammatory process caused by a thrombosed vessel. ⁷ Sclerosing lymphangitis can also occur in the presence of some sexually transmissible infections (STIs) such as Neisseria gonorrhoea or syphilis, and appropriate STI screening may be necessary. The thrombosed vessel will usually spontaneously recanalise and therefore the condition itself requires no treatment.

Figure 5. Lymphocoele. Also note small pearly penile papules

Skin tags

Also known as acrochordons, skin tags are common in the skin creases of the groin in middle aged men. They typically have the size and shape of a grain of rice. They are often also present in the axillae and on the lateral skin of the neck. Skin tags have a fibrovascular centre and normal overlying epidermis.

Penile lumps that may require treatment

Warts

Penile warts(Condylomata acuminata) are irregular, rough lesions that can occur anywhere along the penile shaft, glans and prepuce; they can also arise from the meatus. Warts vary in size from a millimetre to a few centimetres. Warts on the shaft of the penis or pubic area tend to be more indurated and dome shaped, whereas those under the prepuce or emerging from the urethra are softer and fronded (Figure 6). A smooth-looking wart may be difficult to distinguish from an acrochordon (skin tag) or other normal structure, but using a bright light and magnification will reveal fine dots or a cobblestone pattern. Warts are most commonly due to strains 6 and 11 of HPV.⁸ There are a number of options for treatment including cryotherapy, podophyllotoxin and imiquimod. All of these therapeutic options typically require multiple treatments over a number of weeks. As the natural history of HPV in immunocompetent hosts is spontaneous recovery over 12–24 months, patients may also opt to have no treatment.^9,10

Figure 6. Penile warts

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum appear as small papules with a central depression or umbilication. They are caused by a member of the poxvirus family, molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). Molluscum contagiosum are commonly acquired by children from non-sexual skin contact, often during bathing or swimming with other infected children. In adults however, sexually transmitted molluscum may be seen on or near the genitals (Figure 7). The virus has a self limiting course over a period of months, but treatment with cryotherapy is often recommended to prevent the spread of MCV to others.^11,12

Figure 7. Molluscum contagiosum

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles, frequently seen at the base of the penis (Figure 8). Folliculitis presents as a pustule around the hair follicle, which is frequently itchy and sometimes painful. Patients are often concerned that genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the cause, but the association with a hair follicle and the quality of the pain helps distinguish folliculitis from HSV. If a lesion is aspirated, thick purulent material (which may be blood stained), is often seen, whereas, vesicles due to HSV express a clear or straw coloured fluid. Herpes simplex virus may also be associated with a prodrome of malaise, fatigue and paraesthesia of the affected area. Molluscum contagiosum lesions is another casue occasionally confused with folliculitis, but there is sometimes a red halo. Folliculitis is often successfully managed with topical treatments and genital hygiene measures, but may need appropriate antimicrobial therapy if there is a surrounding cellulitis or a large number of lesions.

Figure 8. Folliculitis

Primary syphilis

An early syphilis chancre may present as a non-ulcerated, button shaped lump on the penile skin. Chancres are often indurated and there is usually some sign of epidermal breakdown or inguinal lymphadenopathy. Syphilis serology may be negative for the first few days of a chancre and should be repeated 2–4 weeks later if syphilis is suspected. In very early syphilis, treponemal polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using a dry cotton swab vigorously rubbed on the lesion at the time of the initial consultation, may be more likely to yield a positive result. While only some specialist laboratories perform this, most can forward the specimen on for appropriate testing.

Scabies

Genital scabies presents as intensely itchy, pink nodules (Figure 9). Patients usually have some sign of scabies elsewhere, such as the wrists, fingers and lower abdominal skin, which may include typical linear burrows.

Figure 9. Scabies

Subcutaneous lumps

Lumps beneath the skin are uncommon on the penis and are more likely to represent pathology. An important diagnosis to consider is Peyronie disease, which can present as a plaque attached to the tunica albuginea, usually in the proximal half of the penis. The skin moves freely over this, and patients may have noticed curvature of the erect penis. In some cultures there is a practice of inserting steel, plastic or glass beads under the penile skin. A small lump near the hair bearing skin of the proximal penis may represent a healed furuncle.

Summary

While lumps on the penis are frequently a source of great anxiety for the patient, if it is unclear whether the lesion is a normal variant or not, there is usually no harm in asking the patient to return for review. In some cases, it is necessary to refer to a more experienced colleague, a sexual health service or dermatologist to assist with diagnosis. A second opinion is often more efficient and preferable to the patient than a biopsy or a trial of treatment.

Key points

• Genital warts are becoming less common.
• Normal variants can cause significant anxiety, but have no sequelae, do not represent an STI, cannot be passed to others, and do not require treatment.
• If the diagnosis is unclear, it may be useful to review the patient in a few weeks. A normal variant does not usually progress, and for most conditions that require treatment, there is no harm to the patient if treatment is delayed for a few weeks.

Competing interests: Tim Read has received payment from GlaxoSmithKline and Merck Sharp & Dohme for work as Site Principal Investigator for an antiretroviral trial (GSK) and HPV vaccine study (MSD).
Provenance and peer review: Commissioned; externally peer reviewed.

Acknowledgements

The authors gratefully acknowledge Ian Denham for his review of the manuscript and for contributing images. We also acknowledge the assistance of Afrizal Afrizal for the technical support of images.

Molluscum contagiosum – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• Molluscum contagiosum is a mild, harmless viral skin infection.
• It’s common in children and results from close contact with other children who have the infection.
• Molluscum contagiosum is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in adults as it can be spread by skin-to-skin contact during sex.
• It’s characterised by small, smooth, round, pearly lumps with a central core.
• The infection usually resolves itself, but treatment can shorten the length of symptoms.  

About Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. It is a sexually transmissible infection (STI) in adults as it can be spread by skin-to-skin contact during sex.

You can also spread the infection around your body by scratching, especially in areas where the skin is broken. Occasionally, molluscum contagiosum can be spread by bathing (bath or pool water), or by touching objects that have the virus on them, such as bath toys, towels, clothing or bedding.

Molluscum contagiosum is common in children and results from close contact with other children who have the infection.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum may cause small lumps or lesions (around 1–5 mm in diameter) to appear on the skin of the thighs, genitals and abdominal area. It usually does not affect other parts of your body.

The lesions:

• are painless, but may be slightly itchy
• often have a tiny central indentation
• can be numerous and cover the thighs, genital and abdominal areas
• will eventually resolve without treatment within a few months (are ‘self-limiting’).

Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum can be mistaken for genital warts or pimples. If you notice any unusual skin lesions, it’s recommended that you see your doctor or other experienced health professional for an accurate diagnosis.

There is no test for molluscum contagiosum – it’s diagnosed only by the appearance of the lesions. If you have molluscum contagiosum, your health professional may recommend tests for other STIs.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum

Treatment is available, although molluscum contagiosum will eventually clear up by itself if left untreated. The lesions are usually treated with liquid nitrogen, which freezes them. This helps reduce the length of time that symptoms are present.

Liquid nitrogen treatment:

• is commonly available from your local doctor or sexual health centre
• is cosmetic and it is not a cure, as the virus remains on the skin until your immune system has got rid of it
• usually only requires a single treatment. However, it may take a couple of weeks for the lumps to disappear after freezing with liquid nitrogen.

People with suppressed immune systems may take longer for molluscum contagiosum to clear. Sexual partners of a person with molluscum contagiosum do not need treatment if they have no lesions on their body.

Complications of molluscum contagiosum

Bacterial infections can complicate molluscum contagiosum, however, this is rare. To lessen the risk of bacterial infection or the spread of molluscum contagiosum, do not pick, squeeze or irritate the lesions. There is no need to apply creams or lotions, just keep up your usual hygiene practices.

If molluscum contagiosum is not treated

Molluscum contagiosum is a mild, ‘self-limiting’ skin infection. Without treatment, it can persist for several months, but will eventually resolve. The duration, severity and length of treatment of molluscum contagiosum vary from person to person.

Where to get help

• Your doctor / GP
• Sexual Health Victoria (SHV)External Link. To book an appointment call SHV Melbourne CBD Clinic: (03) 9660 4700 or call SHV Box Hill Clinic: (03) 9257 0100 or (free call): 1800 013 952. These services are youth friendly.
• Melbourne Sexual Health CentreExternal Link Tel. (03) 9341 6200 or 1800 032 017 or TTY (for the hearing impaired) (03) 9347 8619
• Thorne Harbour HealthExternal Link (formerly Victorian AIDS Council) Tel. (03) 9865 6700 or 1800 134 840
• Ballarat Community Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5338 4500
• Bendigo Community Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5434 4300 Or (03) 5448 1600
• Gateway Health ClinicExternal Link, Wodonga Tel. (02) 6022 8888 or 1800657 573
• Sunraysia Community Health ServicesExternal Link Tel. (03) 5022 5444
• Barwon Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5226 7489
• 1800MyOptionsExternal Link Tel:1800 696784 is a statewide phone service for information about sexual health as well as contraception and pregnancy options

• Sexual health factsheetsExternal Link, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre
• Australian STI Management GuidelinesExternal Link
• Sexually Transmissible InfectionsExternal Link, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
• Family Planning VictoriaExternal Link
• Department of HealthExternal Link, Australian Government

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Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease caused by the RNA-containing virus Molluscum contagiosum virus that appears as flesh-colored or pinkish papules that may have a pearly hue, with a slight depression in the center.

Papules can range in size from a few millimeters to 1.5 cm in diameter. With slight pressure, mushy white contents come out of the center of the papule. It is worth noting that the papules are painless, do not itch, and as such do not bring anxiety, except perhaps only aesthetic. However, you yourself can rate this moment at photo of molluscum contagiosum in men .

The following ways of transmission of the virus are distinguished:

1. Contact household. More common in children. Children go to kindergarten, school, swimming pool, where there are many of them, where they are constantly in contact with each other. Where they share toys. And the attitude to personal hygiene in children is not the most responsible.

2. Sexual. More common in adults.

Molluscum contagiosum in men is a sexually transmitted infection. Papules are most often localized on the vulva, inner thighs, pubis, or lower abdomen. Dates molluscum contagiosum on the pubis in men and molluscum contagiosum in the groin in men .

Molluscum contagiosum in men is a sexually transmitted infection.

If the examination of the hips, pubis is not difficult, then the examination of the external genitalia should be approached with increased care. Do not forget to expose the head of the penis, examine the inner leaf of the foreskin and the outer opening of the urethra, because molluscum contagiosum on the head in men is not so uncommon. And also, in connection with the growth of same-sex sexual contacts, it is necessary to examine the anus.

In order to avoid relapses after the treatment, it is necessary to examine, and if necessary, treat the male sexual partner. And it should be remembered that molluscum contagiosum is contagious all the time while there are rashes. And at this time, sexual intercourse should be avoided, hygiene should be carefully observed, and the apartment should be thoroughly cleaned.

A practical reservoir of a viral infection of molluscum contagiosum is a person.

This disease can only be transmitted from person to person.

Prepared by: Ravodin Roman Anatolyevich, dermatovenereologist, dermatooncologist, dermatocosmetologist. Doctor of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor

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Molluscum contagiosum: causes, symptoms, treatment in adults and children

Molluscum contagiosum is a dermatological pathology for which the nature but the appearance on the skin (less often on the mucous membranes) of specific benign formations. Pink dome-shaped nodules with a smooth surface and a depressed core can reach 2-5 mm (rarely 1.5 cm) in diameter. Rashes are concentrated in a group, hitting vast areas. Places of localization – any areas of the skin (hands, face, head, chest, abdomen and groin area), except for the feet and palms.

No or mild subjective symptoms – papules may cause mild itching. Treatment is aimed at removing a pronounced cosmetic defect and preventing the spread of pathology to neighboring areas.

Interesting: Waxlike papules resemble pearls, and upon close examination, they resemble the shell of a mollusk, which was the name for the disease. The disease does not pose a direct threat to human health. However, if damaged, there is a high risk of secondary infection, which can provoke suppuration. Also, the pathology is highly contagious. Treat it to protect others from the risk of infection.

Molluscum contagiosum: causes of occurrence

Almost anyone can get sick with molluscum contagiosum, since this disease is viral in nature. But most often, pathology is diagnosed in children and adolescents, which is explained by several factors at once:

• The body’s defense system is not fully formed.
• Insufficient personal hygiene skills and habits.
• Frequent tactile contact in a peer group.

The immune system of animals is resistant to this disease, so they do not get sick. Infection of people occurs through direct contact with the carrier of the virus or through common hygiene and household items. But cases have also been diagnosed when patients became infected through the water of a public pool, through dust in the premises – the virus is able to live for some time outside a living organism.

Molluscum contagiosum: modes of transmission

The main causes of infection are:

• Direct physical contact in a group of people – often diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum in a child who attends a childcare facility. Pathology is found in entire groups of schoolchildren and preschool children.
• Infection in the family, infection through sexual contact. In large families, the spread of infection occurs very quickly. And people who have an active sex life with different partners get sick much more often than those who are adherents of monogamy.
• People who visit swimming pools, gyms, beaches. The virus is transmitted when using shared showers, sports equipment, benches.

Important: If a person has other skin diseases accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the epidermis, the molluscum contagiosum virus enters the body and spreads faster.

Molluscum contagiosum: symptoms

After infection, it can take 6-9 months before the virus makes itself felt. With adverse factors – a cold, hypothermia – the virus can activate faster. Groups of small rashes appear on the skin in the form of nodules filled with fluid. More often than others, the skin of the face, chest, abdomen, and extremities is affected. Molluscum contagiosum in adult patients who became infected through unprotected sexual contact is characterized by the localization of “pearls” in the genital area, pubis.

Since the voluminous rash does not itch, does not hurt, the patient may not betray the significance of the pathology for a long time. But if the papules are damaged mechanically (by clothing) or with concomitant skin pathology (dermatitis, urticaria), the foci can become inflamed. Local non-specific therapy with anti-inflammatory drugs contributes to the attenuation of acute symptoms, but the virus cannot be cured in this way, relapses are possible.

There are known cases of self-healing, when papules of molluscum contagiosum disappear within a few years, and the disease no longer manifests itself. This happens during the formation of persistent immunity.

Molluscum contagiosum: diagnosis

Visually, molluscum contagiosum is quite specific, so the diagnosis of the disease in most cases is not difficult. However, only for a qualified specialist. Without the necessary knowledge, it is easy to confuse pathology with other skin diseases.

Specialized clinics use dermatoscopy to examine skin lesions. Using a digital dermatoscope (a device that enlarges the image of the skin by sixteen times), the doctor can accurately determine the nature and nature of the neoplasm.

In some cases, the capsule is punctured to obtain fluid and its subsequent laboratory analysis – intracytoplasmic bodies can be seen under a microscope.

How does genital molluscum contagiosum present?

If the virus is transmitted through sexual contact, molluscum contagiosum may be found on the genitals. These are all the same groups of pink nodules up to 5 mm in diameter, which are located on the glans penis, on the labia, on the pubis, on the inner surface of the thighs and look like cones with a sunken core. Giant clams are rare, reaching 1.5 cm in size. It is large papules that are often injured by underwear, become inflamed. This disease is dangerous. Inflammation in the genital area can lead to serious health problems – an abscess.

How to treat molluscum contagiosum?

Do not try to remove molluscum contagiosum with folk remedies at home. Squeezing the rash is not allowed. After all, mechanical damage to the capsule can lead to the spread of pathogenic fluid. In this case, the virus can spread to neighboring areas of the skin. And in the presence of microcracks, the localization of the disease increases.

It is strongly recommended that molluscum contagiosum be treated in an outpatient setting at a specialized medical center. You need to make an appointment with a dermatologist.

Modern dermatology offers several effective treatments for the disease. All of them are aimed at removing pathological formations from the skin surface:

• removal with surgical tweezers;
• laser treatment;
• cauterization with liquid nitrogen;
• radio wave knife.

Important: Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum is the method of choice when the final aesthetic result is important (for example, when removing capsules on the eyelids, around the eyes and lips, on the neck) and painlessness (for example, when treating a disease on the genitals).

In case of single manifestations of small diameter, the doctor may prescribe conservative treatment with antiviral pharmaceutical agents – ointments, gels, tablets.

Laser treatment of molluscum contagiosum

• Treating molluscum contagiosum with a laser means avoiding scars at the site of treatment. This cannot be provided by the method of cauterization with nitrogen or mechanical removal of formations with surgical instruments. The laser beam acts precisely, healthy tissues are not damaged, therefore the recovery period is minimal.
• Wounds do not become infected, do not bleed. Under the action of a laser, an infectious virus dies.
• Short laser pulses are not recognized by pain receptors, so the procedure is performed without anesthesia or under local anesthesia. This is especially important when the removal is performed on sensitive skin and genital mucosa in men and women, or on any areas of delicate children’s skin.
• After the procedure, the minimum rehabilitation period. Wound healing drugs, a sterile dressing may be recommended. After 3-4 days, the skin is completely restored, no traces remain on the skin.
• High treatment speed is another advantage of laser treatment. In one session, a dermatologist can remove 15-20 papules. The absence of serious contraindications allows the use of this technique for children and older people.

If you are interested in laser treatment of molluscum contagiosum, we recommend that you contact the Laserlight clinic. You will be helped to get rid of the defect with high efficiency and in a short time.

Molluscum contagiosum: prevention

Prevention of a contagious disease consists in observing the rules of hygiene. Children should be taught from childhood to take care of the cleanliness of the body, especially the hands. When it comes to sexual intimacy with a new partner, it is very important to use contraceptives. This will protect not only from molluscum contagiosum, but also from more dangerous sexually transmitted diseases.

When visiting the swimming pool, gym to avoid infection will help the use of personal washcloths, towels. Completely refrain from using shared hygiene items.

Thoroughly clean the room and workplace using disinfectants. This will help kill the virus that is present in the dust. It is recommended to iron underwear that is dried in the open air. The temperature will kill any pathogenic flora that may have settled on the tissue.

If a family member is diagnosed with this disease, it is important to ensure that the conditions are not passed on to other relatives. In addition to increased disinfection of common areas, surfaces in common rooms, in hygienic rooms, try to avoid tactile contact until the patient has been treated. If a pathology is found in a child, children’s institutions should be abandoned.

Water supports the virus well. The patient should refrain from visiting public pools and baths for the duration of treatment.

Questions and answers on the topic “Molluscum contagiosum”