Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection from the poxvirus family that causes pearl-like bumps on the skin. The nodules are 2 mm to 5 mm in diameter and are painless unless a person picks at them. Molluscum contagiosum can sometimes be confused with herpes when seen on the genitals, however, the distinct difference is that molluscum lesions are painless whereas the herpes lesions can be painful. Although it is possible to have a single bump, molluscum contagiosum is typically found in multiples. In the beginning, the dome of the bump is firm, but later it becomes softer and grayer and may drain.
In most cases, this infection is found in children. Typically, bumps on children are seen on the face, neck, armpits, and hands. In adults, however, molluscum contagiosum can be seen on the genitals, abdomen, and inner thighs and is considered to be a sexually transmitted disease (lesions may occur anywhere except the palms of the hands and soles of the feet). The virus is transmitted through direct contact and can be transferred by shaving, scratching, and from one body location to another by the shedding of a lesion adjacent to the normal skin. Also, squeezing a lesion can make it even more contagious.
People with normal immune systems can expect individual lesions to last anywhere from 2 to 3 months. Complete disappearance of the virus can last anywhere from 3 to 18 months. However, people who are immuno-deficient because they have an illness such as AIDS may have a rapidly worsening case of this virus. Typically, a doctor will allow the virus to run its course, although some health care providers prefer to remove the nodules - especially if there is a chance that spreading may occur. Most people infected with the virus want to have the bumps removed as soon as they are found. While the bumps may disappear on their own without scarring, many people have discovered that new lesions develop and spread to other areas, to sexual partners or even to family members. In such cases, individual lesions may be removed by surgically scrapping, application of trichloracetic or bichloracetic acid, freezing, or electrosurgery. Surgical removal of lesions may cause scarring. Alternatively, medications such as those used to remove warts may be helpful. Also, pimple medications that contain 5% benzyl peroxide such as oxy or Clearasil may help to remove the nodules as well.
There are many ways people can attempt to protect themselves from contracting molluscum contagiosum such as: avoiding direct contact with skin lesions, limiting the number of sexual partners, not having sexual relations with a partner who has recently shaved their pubic area, and using anti-fungal soap after sexual contact with a new partner with an unknown sexual history. When sleeping at a new partner's house overnight, request fresh bedding, and it's also a good idea not to share towels and washcloths. Most importantly, using condoms consistently will reduce the risk of contracting any sexually transmitted disease. Since molluscum contagiosum is mildly contagious, following these precautions can greatly decrease people's chances of contracting this virus.
If you suspect you may have molluscum contagiosum, a doctor can only confirm a diagnosis. Call for an appointment with your health care provider, especially if lesions persist or spread. Then your doctor can choose whether or not the nodules need to be removed. And remember, do not pick at the bumps, it will only make them spread!
© - Reproduced with permission of SexInfo, University of California at Santa Barbara, 2007.