Molluscum Contagiosum: Symptoms, Treatment, & Prevention

Have you noticed small, unusual bumps on yourself or your child’s skin? Molluscum contagiosum, a common viral infection that typically affects kids under 10, could cause these little dome-shaped bumps.

While finding these bumps can be concerning, especially for parents, the good news is that the infection is usually harmless and often clears up on its own. Let's learn about molluscum contagiosum so you can make informed decisions about how to care for yourself or your child.

What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), a member of the poxvirus family. The infection leads to small, raised, pearl-like bumps (lesions) on the top layer of skin that develop after exposure to the virus.

While the condition is benign and usually resolves on its own, it can be bothersome, itchy, or make you feel self-conscious about your appearance.

Who does molluscum contagiosum affect?

Molluscum contagiosum can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are at higher risk. Understanding who is most susceptible can help you take appropriate preventive measures.

Molluscum contagiosum is most common in:

• Children, due to close contact at schools, playgrounds, or daycare centers

• Sexually active adults, through skin-to-skin contact

• Individuals with weakened immune systems, who may develop more widespread or persistent lesions, such as:

  • People living with HIV

  • People undergoing chemotherapy

How does molluscum contagiosum affect my body?

The virus infects the top layer of skin and produces painless, dome-shaped bumps with a dimple at the centre. It does not usually cause serious illness but may spread across the body or to other people.

Scratching the bumps can spread the virus to new areas of skin, so it's important to avoid touching or picking at lesions.

If you're concerned about molluscum contagiosum or have noticed suspicious bumps on your child’s skin, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can help evaluate this condition and provide a tailored treatment.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum

The distinguishing symptoms are small, round, firm bumps on the skin. Recognising these distinctive features can help you identify the infection early.

The bumps typically have these features:

• Size, 2-5 mm (sometimes larger in people with weakened immune systems)

• Colour, flesh-coloured, pink, or white

• Shape, dome-shaped with a central dimple (umbilication)

• Number, single or clusters of up to dozens of lesions

Where the lesions appear depends on how you acquired the infection. Common locations include:

• In children, face, trunk, arms, and legs

• In adults, genital area, inner thighs, or abdomen

• In people with weakened immune systems, the lesions can appear anywhere on the body, often widespread

While molluscum bumps are typically painless, you may experience other discomfort. Itching or redness may occur, especially if lesions are irritated or scratched.

What causes molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by exposure to the MCV. Understanding how this virus spreads is key to protecting yourself and others.

The virus spreads through:

• Direct skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact

• Indirect contact, via contaminated objects such as towels, clothing, or gym equipment

• Self-inoculation, where the virus is spread to new areas of skin by scratching or shaving over bumps.

How is molluscum contagiosum diagnosed?

Diagnosis is straightforward in most cases and typically doesn't require extensive testing. Your doctor can determine whether you have molluscum contagiosum through clinical examination based on the distinctive appearance of the bumps.

In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, especially if lesions resemble other skin conditions such as warts, chickenpox, or skin cancer. This thorough approach ensures you receive the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How is molluscum contagiosum treated?

Treatment varies depending on the severity and persistence of your lesions, but most cases respond well to intervention. Most cases resolve without treatment within 6 to 18 months, though it may take longer in some individuals.

Treatment is recommended if:

• Lesions are widespread, persistent, or bothersome

• You are immunocompromised (your immune system is weakened and cannot fight infections effectively)

• The bumps are causing discomfort or affecting your confidence

Treatment options available

Several effective treatment options exist depending on your specific situation and preferences. Your doctor can recommend the best approach for you:

• Cryotherapy, freezing lesions with liquid nitrogen

• Curettage, scraping off bumps with a surgical instrument

• Topical therapies, applied directly to the skin, such as cantharidin, salicylic acid, or retinoid creams

• Laser therapy, used for resistant cases

If you're experiencing widespread or persistent lesions, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can recommend which treatment is suitable for your specific condition.

How can you prevent molluscum contagiosum?

Prevention strategies work best when combined, creating multiple layers of protection against infection. You can protect yourself and others by:

• Avoiding skin-to-skin contact

• Not sharing personal items such as towels, razors, or clothing

• Practicing safe sex using condoms, though they may not fully prevent transmission

• Covering lesions with clothing or bandages until they heal

• Avoiding scratching or shaving over lesions to prevent spread

FAQ

How common is molluscum contagiosum?

Is molluscum contagiosum contagious?

Yes, it spreads easily through skin contact and contaminated objects. However, once lesions disappear, the virus is no longer contagious.

What triggers molluscum contagiosum?

The only trigger is exposure to the molluscum contagiosum virus. Risk increases with close contact, weakened immunity, or damaged skin.

What can I expect if I have molluscum contagiosum?

The infection is self-limiting – it will eventually go away without treatment. However, new bumps may appear as old ones heal, prolonging the course.

How long does molluscum contagiosum last?

In healthy individuals, lesions usually clear within 6 to 18 months. In immunocompromised people, they may persist for several years if untreated.

Where do symptoms of molluscum contagiosum form on my body?

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice based on your unique situations, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical today.