Molluscum

Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum: Symptoms, Transmission, and Treatment

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin condition characterized by smooth, pearly, flesh-colored bumps with a central crater. These small, painless growths can be as large as a pencil eraser and may cause itching, with the surrounding skin sometimes becoming infected. The bumps typically last from two weeks to a year and a half and can resolve on their own. However, molluscum is highly contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching contaminated objects.

At Keystone Dermatology Partners, our skilled team is experienced in treating molluscum contagiosum, which often appears on the face, neck, arms, and genital areas. If you are dealing with these lesions, our providers offer specialized care and effective treatments to manage and eliminate molluscum contagiosum. Schedule an appointment with Keystone Dermatology Partners for a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan to prevent further spread and promote healthy skin.

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection. The virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact or even touching something that is infected with the virus. 

The virus usually first appears as small pink or flesh-colored dome-shaped bumps that typically have a dimple in the center. They may be filled with a thick white cheesy or waxy substance. Although the bumps are usually painless, they can itch and turn red. Lesions most commonly appear on the face, neck, arms, hands, armpits, abdomen, genitals, or inner thighs. 

Most cases of molluscum contagiosum will resolve on their own within 6 months. There are several different treatments which may speed resolution.
These include:

• Cryosurgery: The bumps are frozen off with liquid nitrogen.
• Curettage: The bumps are scraped from the skin using a tool called a curette
• Topical Therapy: Various acids and blistering solutions are applied to destroy the bumps
• Topical retinoid creams
• Topical anti-viral creams