Molluscum Contagiosum: What is that?!

March 7, 2025

Are you noticing small, raised bumps on your child’s skin that don’t seem to go away? These could be signs of molluscum contagiosum, a common viral skin infection often seen in children. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for molluscum contagiosum, helping you understand how to manage and prevent it effectively.

At After Hours Kids in Austin, Texas, we specialize in treating a variety of skin infections, including molluscum contagiosum. Our compassionate team is here to provide expert care for your child’s skin health. If you’re concerned about your child’s skin and suspect molluscum contagiosum, don’t wait—visit our office today!

What is Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It results in benign, raised bumps on the skin’s surface, which can be itchy or irritating but are generally not painful. This condition is particularly common in children due to their close contact with peers and tendency to share items like toys or towels, which can spread the virus.

The condition can affect adults as well, particularly those with weakened immune systems or atopic dermatitis.

Is Molluscum Contagiosum Contagious?

The molluscum contagiosum infection can spread to other areas of your skin if the bumps are scratched or injured. Molluscum contagiosum can also spread from person to person through touch and objects that have been infected with the virus.

Molluscum Contagiosum Signs and Symptoms

Molluscum Contagiosum symptoms typically include the following:

Skin Lesions: Small, firm, raised bumps with a dimple in the center. These bumps can be flesh-colored, white, or pink.
Itchiness or Irritation: Some individuals experience mild itching around the lesions.
Clusters of Lesions: The bumps often appear in groups on the face, trunk, limbs, or in the diaper area.

Which Areas Does the Condition Affect?

In children, molluscum contagiosum commonly affects areas like:

Face and Neck: Often due to frequent touching and close contact.
Arms and Hands: These areas are exposed during play and can easily come into contact with infected surfaces.
Trunk and Legs: Particularly in cases where children share clothing or towels.Stages of Molluscum Contagiosum Infection

The progression of molluscum contagiosum can be broken into several stages:

Initial Stage: Small, painless bumps appear on the skin.
Growth Stage: Lesions increase in size, sometimes reaching up to 5mm in diameter.
Resolution Stage: Lesions gradually become inflamed and red before disappearing, often without scarring.

Causes of Molluscum Contagiosum

Children can contract molluscum contagiosum through:

Direct Skin-to-Skin Contact: During play or physical interactions.
Shared Objects: Towels, toys, and clothing can harbor the virus, making it easy to spread.
Scratching or Picking at Bumps: This can spread the virus to other parts of the body.

In adults, the virus can be transmitted through sexual contact.

How is Molluscum Contagiosum Diagnosed?

Molluscum contagiosum is diagnosed through a physical examination. A healthcare provider can usually identify the condition by the appearance of the skin lesions. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, especially if the lesions resemble other skin conditions like genital and anal warts.

Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Options

Treatment for molluscum contagiosum focuses on removing the lesions and preventing the spread of the virus. Options include:

Topical Treatments: Creams and ointments containing retinoids or antiviral agents to reduce lesions.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesions with liquid nitrogen.
Curettage: Surgical removal of lesions using a small instrument.
Duct Tape Method: Applying duct tape over the lesions to irritate the skin and trigger an immune response, leading to lesion removal over time.
Preventing Secondary Bacterial Skin Infections: Keeping the area clean to avoid additional complications.

How to Prevent Molluscum Contagiosum

To prevent molluscum contagiosum in children:

Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Teach children not to share towels, clothing, or toys that come into contact with skin.
Encourage Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing can reduce the spread of the virus.
Cover Lesions: If your child has molluscum contagiosum, keep the lesions covered to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Seek Expert Care at After Hours Kids

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of molluscum contagiosum, After Hours Kids in Austin, TX, is here to help. Our experienced team offers comprehensive care to diagnose and treat molluscum contagiosum, ensuring a quick recovery.

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