Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTypesSymptomsCausesDiagnosisTreatmentPrognosisCopingFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Types
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prognosis
Coping
Frequently Asked Questions
Poxvirus refers to a family of viruses that tend to cause skin lesions or bumps,fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches.
This article explains what molluscum contagiosum is, what causes it, and the symptoms associated with it. It also discusses how it is diagnosed and treatment options.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See Photo
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Types of Molluscum Contagiosum
There are foursubtypes of the virusthat can trigger molluscum contagiosum. All four types cause the same lesions, or bumps. Type one is the most common, while types two, three, and four tend to impact those with weakened immune systems.
What to Know About Viral Infections
Molluscum Contagiosum Symptoms
The molluscum contagiosum virus causes raised, firm bumps on the skin. These bumps range from the size of a pinhead to the size of a pencil eraser.
They are usually white, pink, or flesh-colored with a small dimple or pit in the middle. Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living withHIV/AIDS, may get larger bumps that grow to the size of a dime. While typically painless, the bumps can be itchy, irritated, swollen, or sore.
A Guide to Viral Rashes in Adults and Children
What Is Mpox?
How It Spreads
Molluscum contagiosum spreads through close or skin-to-skin contact. This may include shared towels, athletic equipment, clothes, toys, and other shared objects.
If possible, children should avoid sharing objects and linens with others, and should not take baths with other children to prevent further spread.
In adults, the infection can be sexually transmitted and can appear in the genital and anal area, as well as themouth.It’s best to refrain from sexual activity and see your healthcare provider right away if you notice these symptoms.
What Causes a Genital Rash and How Is It Treated?
Molluscum contagiosum is not detected through urine or blood tests.
Getting a Biopsy: How to Prepare
At your healthcare provider’s office, the bumps:
In most cases, the molluscum bumps will heal in six to 12 months if left untreated.
Once the molluscum bumps are gone, the infection is considered to be cured. Molluscum contagiosum has no dormant or inactive phase likeherpesorhuman papillomavirus (HPV).
While considered a mild condition, it can take a while for the virus to fully clear up. Scarring usually does not occur. However, scarring is possible if you scratch the bumps off or have them medically removed.
Molluscum contagiosum infections are generally easy to manage in individuals with healthy immune systems. They can be much more problematic in people with uncontrolled HIV, or with weakened immune systems. In rare cases, infections that spread can lead to permanent skin changes.
To manage this condition:
Keep in mind that the molluscum contagiosum virus doesn’t stick around after you heal. However, if you come into contact with someone with this condition, it is possible to get reinfected.
Among adults, the most common way that this condition is transmitted is through sexual contact. It’s best to avoid sexual contact with an individual with this condition until the virus has cleared, or at leastpractice safer sexual contact.
In children, it can be difficult to prevent this infection from spreading. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the chance of the infection spreading on the individual and to others.
Summary
Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious viral infection that can lead to fluid-filled skin lesions in children and adults. These round, usually-painless bumps may sometimes be itchy, swollen, or sore. It spreads from skin-to-skin contact and close contact.
Your healthcare provider can diagnose this condition with a physical examination and a biopsy, if needed. Treatment will vary depending on the specific individual. In most cases, the infection can fully clear up untreated within six to 12 months.
A Word From Verywell
While it may feel stressful to find out that you or a loved one has this infection, there are steps you can take to reduce its spread further on your own body and to others. Remember that this virus typically clears on its own without treatment and often doesn’t cause any scarring.
Be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you notice any new bumps on your body.
Learn MoreIdentify Herpes Rash on the Body
Yes. Because it can spread through sexual contact, it is considered an STI in adults.Learn MoreA Guide to Regular STI Screenings
Yes. Because it can spread through sexual contact, it is considered an STI in adults.
Learn MoreA Guide to Regular STI Screenings
Keeping the bumps clean, avoiding squeezing and scratching them, and washing your hands can help prevent the virus from further spreading on your body. Healthcare providers can also remove them with freezing, lasers, and other treatments.Learn MoreWhen to See a Dermatologist
Keeping the bumps clean, avoiding squeezing and scratching them, and washing your hands can help prevent the virus from further spreading on your body. Healthcare providers can also remove them with freezing, lasers, and other treatments.
Learn MoreWhen to See a Dermatologist
3 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.
3 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.
Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.
Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.
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