What is molluscum contagiosum? How is it transmitted? What are the symptoms? How is it diagnosed and treated? Get answers to these and other key questions about this common skin condition.

Understanding 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 through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. The infection can also spread around the body by scratching, especially in areas where the skin is broken.

Molluscum contagiosum is a common condition, particularly among children, and results from close contact with other children who have the infection. Occasionally, the virus can be spread through bathing (bath or pool water) or by touching objects that have the virus on them, such as bath toys, towels, clothing, or bedding.

Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum

The primary symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the appearance of small, smooth, round, pearly lumps or lesions on the skin. These lesions are typically 1-5 mm in diameter and often have a tiny central indentation. The lesions are usually painless, but may be slightly itchy.

The lesions typically appear on the thighs, genitals, and abdominal area, and do not usually affect other parts of the body. While the lesions may be numerous and cover a wide area, the infection is generally self-limiting and will eventually resolve without treatment within a few months.

Diagnosis and Testing

Molluscum contagiosum can be easily mistaken for other skin conditions, such as genital warts or pimples. If you notice any unusual skin lesions, it is recommended that you see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

There is no specific test for molluscum contagiosum – the diagnosis is made based on the appearance of the lesions. If you are diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum, your healthcare provider may recommend tests for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well.

Treatment Options

While treatment is available, molluscum contagiosum will eventually clear up on its own if left untreated. The most common treatment is the application of liquid nitrogen, which freezes the lesions. This can help reduce the length of time that the symptoms are present.

Liquid nitrogen treatment is commonly available from your local doctor or sexual health center. It is a cosmetic treatment and not a cure, as the virus remains on the skin until your immune system has cleared it. However, the lesions typically disappear within a couple of weeks after the freezing treatment.

Complications and Precautions

Bacterial infections can occasionally complicate molluscum contagiosum, but this is rare. To minimize the risk of bacterial infection or the spread of the virus, it is important not to pick, squeeze, or irritate the lesions.

There is no need to apply creams or lotions to the affected areas – maintaining good hygiene practices is typically sufficient. Sexual partners of a person with molluscum contagiosum do not require treatment if they have no lesions on their body.

Duration and Persistence

Molluscum contagiosum is a mild, self-limiting skin infection. Without treatment, it can persist for several months, but will eventually resolve on its own. The duration, severity, and length of treatment can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as the strength of the individual’s immune system.

People with suppressed immune systems may take longer for the molluscum contagiosum to clear. In most cases, however, the infection will clear up without the need for extensive medical intervention.

Seeking Help and Support

If you have concerns about molluscum contagiosum or any other sexual health issue, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional. There are various resources available, including sexual health clinics, general practitioners, and specialized community health services, that can provide guidance and support.

Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider and following their recommendations can help ensure the best possible outcome for your health and well-being.