Molluscum Contagiosum is a common skin condition that occurs due to a virus. The viral infection is spread from person to person through contact. Often, people get molluscum contagiosum from sharing towels, clothing, or skin-to-skin contact. This is characterized by pink bumps on the skin. Most people get between 10-20 bumps, but this number can be higher if you have a weakened immune system. If you start to notice these flesh-colored bumps appear, then come into Essential Dermatology to get a diagnosis and treatment plan started.
What Causes Molluscum Contagiosum?
It is a contagious infection that is passed through contact. This skin disease is popular in children and people who live in tropical climates. The virus thrives in warm, humid places. People get this from touching something that is infected with the virus or having skin-to-skin contact with others who have the virus. People can even spread the infection on their own bodies through scratching and picking at bumps, then touching an area that is not infected yet. The virus is not quick-acting, often it takes about seven weeks after being exposed for the symptoms to appear. In some cases, it could take many months.
Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
- Small, firm bumps
- Bumps that feel waxy, smooth, or pearly
- Flesh-colored or pink
- Itch
- Bumps that turn red
- Dimples in the center that is filled with a white substance
- Start to appear on other parts of the body from scratching or picking
Treatments for Molluscum Contagiosum
Often, molluscum contagiosum can go away on its own, but treatment allows this condition to no longer spread to other parts of the body, stop infecting other people, and prevent it from growing out of control for those with weak immune systems. Once it has been diagnosed, different treatments such as cryosurgery, curettage, laser surgery, and some topical medicines can be used to rid the skin of the infection and the bumps.
Due to changes in FDA regulations, Essential Dermatology no longer treats molluscum or warts with cantharadin (‘beetle juice’).
Molluscum Contagiosum FAQs
Is molluscum contagiosum dangerous if it is left untreated?
Molluscum contagiosum is generally considered a benign viral skin infection, but that does not mean it should always be ignored. While many cases eventually resolve on their own, untreated lesions can spread to other areas of the body or to other people through close contact. Scratching can also lead to irritation, inflammation, or secondary bacterial infections. Individuals with eczema or weakened immune systems may experience more extensive outbreaks that are harder to control. A dermatology evaluation can help determine whether active treatment is the best option for your situation.
How can I tell the difference between molluscum contagiosum and warts?
Although both conditions can cause raised bumps on the skin, they have distinct characteristics. Molluscum contagiosum lesions are typically smooth, round, and dome-shaped with a small indentation in the center. Common warts often have a rougher texture and lack the central dimple. Because many skin conditions can resemble one another, self-diagnosis is not always reliable. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michael Krathen, can accurately diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
Can adults get molluscum contagiosum, or is it only a childhood condition?
Molluscum contagiosum is commonly associated with children, but adults can develop it as well. The virus may spread through direct skin contact, shared personal items, athletic activities, or other forms of close contact. Adults with compromised immune systems may be particularly susceptible to persistent or widespread outbreaks. Because the condition can appear differently from person to person, professional diagnosis is often recommended whenever unexplained skin bumps develop.
Can swimming pools, gyms, and sports activities spread molluscum contagiosum?
Activities that involve shared equipment, towels, mats, or close skin contact may increase the risk of transmission. While the virus is not necessarily spread through pool water itself, environments where people frequently share personal items can contribute to exposure. Athletes participating in contact sports may also face a higher risk. Practicing good hygiene, avoiding shared personal items, and covering affected areas when possible can help reduce transmission.
Why does molluscum contagiosum sometimes seem to spread suddenly?
Many patients notice new bumps appearing weeks or months after the first lesions develop. This often occurs because the virus can spread from one area of the skin to another through scratching, shaving, or repeated friction. The process, known as autoinoculation, allows the virus to establish itself in previously unaffected areas. Early treatment and avoiding picking at lesions may help reduce the likelihood of additional spread.
Will molluscum contagiosum leave scars after treatment?
Most molluscum lesions heal without significant scarring, particularly when they are not scratched, picked, or infected. However, any skin treatment carries some risk of temporary discoloration or minor scarring, especially if lesions become inflamed before treatment. The likelihood depends on factors such as skin type, lesion size, treatment method, and individual healing characteristics. Dr. Krathen can discuss expected outcomes and ways to support healthy healing after treatment.
When should I see a dermatologist for molluscum contagiosum?
You should consider scheduling an appointment if the bumps are spreading, becoming irritated, causing discomfort, or creating cosmetic concerns. Evaluation is also recommended if you are unsure of the diagnosis, have a weakened immune system, or have underlying skin conditions such as eczema. Early diagnosis can provide peace of mind and help prevent unnecessary spread. A dermatologist can confirm whether the lesions are molluscum contagiosum and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.
Schedule a Consultation
At a consultation with Dr. Krathen, a board-certified dermatologist with extensive clinical experience, he will diagnose your infection and work with you to find the right treatment for your specific needs. To get started, call our office at (508) 545-9713 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
