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Skin Disorders (Home) > Molluscum Contagiosum Although Molluscum contagiosum affects many populations, including babies and toddlers, the medical community has classified this viral affliction as a sexually transmitted infection. It has been classified in this manner because Molluscum contagiosum is noticeable on sexual genitalia. Acquisition of Molluscum Contagiosum Molluscum contagiosum can be contracted through nonsexual contact. This infection is transmitted through daily intimate physical contact of any kind. For example, individuals who share towels have reported cases of Molluscum contagiosum. Symptoms As a viral infection, Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the existence of a harmful virus within the human body. Outbreaks are noticeable on the abdomen, and on sexual genitalia, thighs, knees and buttocks. This skin infection is noticeable because of the round and firm, flesh colored bumps that will be visible on any affected area of the body. These bumps, which may have a dimple in the center, are called papules. Individuals who have contracted this viral illness will notice that the papules are approximately 1/16” in diameter and may erupt in clusters. Many times, the papules will have a soft center that is filled with fluid. Affected persons may also notice painful sores or skin lesions. If the patient scratches the bumps, or papules, the aggravated lesions will evolve in linear formations and will spread to larger areas of the affected region. When Molluscum contagiosum outbreaks have diminished, some patients will notice pit-like scars on the surface of the skin. Scarring may also occur following medical treatment. Development Molluscum contagiosum is known to have a broad incubation period. It may last from several weeks to several months. Seeking Care Dermatologists are trained to treat numerous skin disorders, including Molluscum contagiosum. A sexual health professional, such as the gynecologist, may also treat outbreaks. Diagnosis The doctor will scrutinize the appearance of any visible skin irritations in order to diagnose or exclude the possibility of Molluscum contagiosum. Molluscum contagiosum can also be diagnosed by removing a small patch of skin. That skin sample will be studied in a laboratory. This process is known as a skin biopsy. Complications Molluscum contagiosum cannot be cured. Failure to treat this illness may further complicate already weakened immune systems. This viral infection can also lead to other bacterial infections, in addition to reoccurring outbreaks of Molluscum contagiosum. Treatment Unfortunately, because Molluscum contagiosum is a type of viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Instead, the health care provider can surgically remove individual papules in numerous ways. For example, the physician can burn, scrape or freeze the papule off an otherwise healthy skin surface. Doctors may also utilize needle electrosurgery. Other doctors will simply remove the center of the sore or utilize wart removal medications. Duration of the illness Although Molluscum contagiosum is a chronic illness, its outbreaks and medical complications can be greatly reduced with treatment. However, individuals with compromised immune systems encounter frequent eruptions of this recurring illness. Prevention Molluscum contagiosum can be prevented if individuals avoid direct contact with skin lesions. Affected individuals must not scratch the papules, as this irritation may spread the sores to unaffected portions of the skin surface. This disease can be circumvented with appropriate sexual health choices. Abstinence is ideal, but sexually active couples should utilize male or female condoms. Summary The current rate of infection with Molluscum contagiosum is particularly high among sexually active individuals. For that reason, although Molluscum contagiosum can affect infants and young children, it is also categorized as a sexually transmitted infection. This chronic viral infection is extremely contagious, but is treatable and rarely causes death or long-lasting medical complications.
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