Molluscum Contagiosum Relief and Treatment

What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum Contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes either single or multiple raised, pearl-like bumps (papules) on the skin. It can be a chronic infection, and therefore, lesions may be present for a few months or even a few years, although in most cases it is resolved in six to nine months.

Causes of Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum Contagiosum is part of the pox virus family, and it is contagious through direct skin contact and usually is more common in children. The virus may also be spread by sexual contact and can occur in people with compromised immune systems. Molluscum Contagiosum can be spread throughout your body by scratching and rubbing an active lesion and then touching another part of your body.

 What Are the Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum?
Common locations for this virus are on the face, trunk, and limbs of children and on the genitals, abdomens, and inner thighs of adults.

The condition usually results in papules that:

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

For people with a normal immune system, the Molluscum Contagiosum virus typically disappears spontaneously over a period of months to years.

In people who have the AIDS virus or other conditions that affect the immune system, the lesions associated with Molluscum Contagiosum can be extensive and especially chronic.