Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that results in characteristic raised bumps on the skin. It is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, a type of poxvirus. These small, firm, and often pearly bumps are contagious and can spread through direct contact.
What is Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection caused by the Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV), a type of poxvirus. This infection leads to small, raised lesions on the skin, which are typically benign. The bumps are usually painless, though they can sometimes become itchy or inflamed.
While molluscum contagiosum can be transmitted through sexual contact in adults, it is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like herpes or syphilis. This distinction arises because the virus can affect anyone, regardless of sexual activity, and is particularly prevalent among children. Its primary mode of transmission is skin-to-skin contact, making it common in settings like schools and daycares.
How Molluscum Spreads
Molluscum contagiosum spreads primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual. This can occur during activities like playing, sports, or intimate interactions. The virus can also be transmitted indirectly.
Contaminated objects, known as fomites, serve as another common route for transmission. Sharing items such as towels, clothing, bath toys, or sports equipment that have come into contact with the bumps can lead to the spread of the virus. Additionally, an infected person can spread the virus to other parts of their own body through autoinoculation. This happens when individuals scratch or pick at existing bumps and then touch unaffected skin.
In adults, sexual contact is a recognized mode of transmission for molluscum contagiosum, particularly when lesions are present in the genital region, inner thighs, or lower abdomen. While sexual contact is a possible route, it is just one of several ways the virus can spread. The infection can be acquired through non-sexual means by anyone.
Identifying and Treating Molluscum
Molluscum lesions typically present as small, firm, raised bumps, often described as flesh-colored, pink, or pearly. A distinguishing feature is a small indentation or “dimple” in the center. These bumps can appear on almost any part of the body.
Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is usually made by a healthcare provider through a visual examination of the characteristic lesions. Treatment for molluscum contagiosum is not always medically necessary, as the condition often resolves on its own within 6 to 12 months, though it can persist for longer.
Treatment options are generally considered for cosmetic reasons, to prevent the spread of the infection, or to alleviate discomfort. Physical removal methods include cryotherapy (freezing the bumps) or curettage (scraping them off). Laser therapy is another option. Topical treatments, such as prescription creams containing cantharidin, imiquimod, or tretinoin, can also be applied. Oral medications are less commonly used but may be considered in more severe or widespread cases.
Preventing Spread and Long-Term Outlook
Preventing the spread of molluscum contagiosum involves several practical measures. Avoiding scratching or picking the bumps is important, as this can spread the virus to other areas of the body through autoinoculation. Frequent hand washing is also recommended to reduce transmission. Individuals should avoid sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, razors, or bath toys, as these can harbor the virus.
Covering the bumps with clothing or waterproof bandages is advisable, particularly during activities that involve close skin-to-skin contact, such as swimming or sports. Shaving over affected areas should also be avoided to prevent further dissemination of the virus. If lesions are present in genital areas, practicing safe sexual contact, such as covering lesions or avoiding contact until they clear, can help prevent sexual transmission.
The long-term outlook for molluscum contagiosum is generally favorable, as it is a benign and self-limiting condition. Most infections resolve completely without intervention. Once the lesions have cleared, the virus is typically eliminated from the body, making recurrence uncommon unless there is re-exposure. Scarring is rare, but it can occur if the lesions are aggressively treated or if they become infected due to scratching.