Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection. It most often affects children, but adults with weakened immune systems can get it, too.

Molluscum contagiosum causes either single or multiple raised, pearl-like bumps (papules) on the skin. It’s a chronic infection, so the bumps may last for a few months or a few years. But most cases get better in 6 to 9 months.

Molluscum contagiosum papules commonly appear on the face, trunk, and limbs of children and on the genitals, abdomen, and inner thighs of adults. The condition usually causes bumps that:

  • Are generally painless but can itch
  • Are small (2 to 5 millimeters in diameter)
  • Have a dimple in the center
  • Are firm, dome-shaped, and flesh-colored at first
  • Become softer with time
  • May turn red and drain over time
  • Have a central core of white, waxy material

Molluscum contagiosum usually disappears on its own over a period of months to years if you have a healthy immune system. If you have AIDS or other conditions that affect the immune system, molluscum contagiosum can lead to widespread, chronic sores.

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													Molluscum contagiosum is a common contageous viral skin infection that most often affects children. It causes either single or multiple raised, pearl-like bumps (papules) on the skin. It’s a chronic infection, so the bumps may last for a few months or a few years.
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									</div></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="091e9c5e800113e3-1-4">Molluscum Contagiosum Causes</h2><p>Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. It’s part of the pox virus family. You can spread molluscum contagiosum:</p><ul><li>Through direct contact with an infected person</li><li>By having sexual contact with an infected person</li><li>By rubbing or scratching the bumps</li></ul><p></p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="091e9c5e800113e3-1-5">Molluscum Contagiosum Diagnosis</h2><p>A diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is based on the way the papule looks. If your doctor isn’t sure, they can confirm the diagnosis with a skin biopsy. They’ll remove a piece of skin to look at more closely. If they’re worried you might have other health problems, they can check for them, too.</p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="091e9c5e800113e3-1-6">Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment</h2><p>Because molluscum contagiosum can go away on its own, you may not need treatment. But the doctor can remove individual bumps by scraping or freezing them. This procedure could leave a scar.</p><p>Topical medications (medications you put on your skin), like those used to remove warts, can also help remove the papules.</p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="091e9c5e800113e3-1-7">Molluscum Contagiosum Prevention</h2><p>To prevent molluscum contagiosum, follow these tips:</p><ul><li>Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with anyone who may have the condition.</li><li>Treat eczema in children.</li><li>Either don’t have sex or have a monogamous sexual relationship with someone who isn’t infected. (Male and female condoms don’t offer full protection. The virus can get to areas the condom doesn’t cover.)</li></ul><p> </p></section></div>