Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin condition caused by a virus. It is easily transmitted person to person or from towels, clothing, etc. The virus causes small skin-colored bumps on the body. This condition occurs most commonly in children. It is generally not harmful, and tends to resolve on its own, however the bumps caused by molluscum can last many years before disappearing.
Did you know…
that although molluscum is more common in children, adults can also develop molluscum? In adults, molluscum contagiosum is often sexually-transmitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is molluscum contagiosum diagnosed?
The bumps of molluscum appear as skin-colored or pink, firm growths appearing anywhere on the body. Molluscum is easily diagnosed by a trained eye. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis. Sometimes what looks like molluscum can be warts or even skin cancer.
What can I do if I have molluscum?
Once infected with the virus, a person can spread the virus to other people as well as to other parts the body. You should avoid shaving, scratching or picking at bumps on the skin and then touching skin that does not have bumps because this can spread the virus and cause new bumps. The virus is very contagious, so we recommend avoiding participating in contact sports, sharing towels or other personal items, and close contact with other people. You should see a dermatologist as soon as possible as treatment for molluscum contagiosum helps to prevent this disease from spreading.
How is molluscum treated?
Our dermatologist will evaluate your skin and determine whether treatment is appropriate and choose the type of treatment. There are many procedures that can be done to treat molluscum. Cryotherapy, curettage, in-office topical therapy, as well as at home topical therapy can be used. Treatments are generally well tolerated.
Elite Dermatology has 5 convenient locations in Texas. We happily treat patients in Katy (and surrounding communities Fulshear and Cinco Ranch), Kingwood, Houston, Heights and River Oaks.
