What is Molluscum?

Molluscum Contagiosum (MC) is a fairly common viral infection found in the skin. The disease is caused by a poxvirus called the Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV).

Signs and symptoms include raised bumps on the skin that are usually pink or flesh-colored. They range in size from the tip of a pin to 1⁄4 inch in diameter. Some lesions will have an indicative dimple in the center of the pustule. This visually identifies the lesion as molluscum contagiosum.

In individuals with a healthy immune system, the disease is self-limiting. Most people spontaneously resolve from the disease within 12 to 24 months. Sufferers who are immuno-compromised may have symptomatic lesions for several years.

WHAT DO MOLLUSCUM LESIONS LOOK LIKE?

Lesions are generally smooth, circular, have a dimple and are painless to the touch. They have a waxy core. Secondary bacterial infections may occur in some lesions causing them to redden, itch, break or become sore.

When skin becomes infected, the virus may lie in a dormant state. The skin may not display the new lesions for a few weeks. New lesions will often rise as old lesions are being treated. This may cause some people to incorrectly believe the treatment they are using is causing new lesions/spreading.