Molluscum Contagiosum

What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a common, harmless viral skin infection caused by a type of poxvirus. It causes small, raised, pearly bumps on the skin.

Who gets it?

Children and young adults are affected most, especially those with eczema, as dry, cracked skin allows the virus in more easily. People of any age can catch it, though. In adults it is often sexually transmitted and appears in the genital area. It can be more widespread and persistent in people with a weakened immune system.

What causes it?

Molluscum is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, a type of poxvirus that infects the top layer of the skin.

Is it hereditary or contagious?

Molluscum is not inherited, but it is contagious, so several members of a family can be affected at the same time.

It is passed on by close skin contact, sexual contact included, and indirectly by sharing towels, flannels, sponges or bath water. It can also spread to other areas of your own skin through scratching, picking or shaving. Spots usually appear between two weeks and several months after contact.

What does it look and feel like?

Molluscum causes small, firm, smooth, dome-shaped bumps, usually 2 to 6 mm across and occasionally up to 20 mm, that are skin-coloured, white, pink or pearly, often with a tiny dimple in the centre. They often appear in clusters. In children they commonly affect the trunk, face, upper legs and skin folds such as the armpits and behind the knees. They do not occur on the palms or soles. In adults, they are more often found on the lower abdomen, inner thighs and genitals.

The spots are usually painless but can be itchy. The skin around them can become red, dry and eczema-like, which is called molluscum dermatitis. When a spot becomes red and swollen, it is often a sign that the immune system is clearing it rather than a sign of infection.

How is it diagnosed?

Molluscum is usually diagnosed from its appearance, sometimes with a dermatoscope. In adults with genital molluscum, screening for other sexually transmitted infections is often recommended. Widespread or unusually large molluscum in adults may prompt checks of the immune system.

What are the treatment options?

Dr Mounsey will confirm the diagnosis and discuss whether treatment is needed, as molluscum clears on its own. Where treatment is wanted, for example for cosmetic reasons or because the spots are widespread or itchy, options include cryotherapy, which he performs himself, and creams such as potassium hydroxide. Any surrounding eczema can be treated with emollients and mild steroid creams. In adults with molluscum in the genital area, he may recommend a sexual health check.

What is the outlook?

Molluscum is harmless and clears on its own once the immune system recognises the virus. Without treatment it normally goes within 6 to 18 months, though in some people it lasts for a few years. Spots normally heal without scarring, unless they are picked or become infected.

More information

British Association of Dermatologists patient leaflet: https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/molluscum-contagiosum

This page gives general information only and is not a substitute for a consultation. Everyone's skin is different, and what is right for you will depend on your own circumstances. If you are worried about a skin problem, please book an appointment with Dr Mounsey or speak to your GP. If you have a mole or skin lesion that is changing, bleeding or growing quickly, please seek medical advice promptly.