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Molluscum contagiosum is infection of the skin by a poxvirus that causes flesh-colored or white smooth, waxy bumps.
The bumps are usually less than ¼ inch (about 0.5 centimeters) in diameter and have a tiny dimple in the center. The virus that causes molluscum is contagious. It spreads by direct skin contact and is common among children. Genital lesions are often transmitted sexually in adults.
Molluscum contagiosum can infect almost any part of the skin. The bumps usually are not itchy or painful and may be discovered only coincidentally during a physical examination. However, the bumps can become very inflamed (resembling a boil) and itchy as the body fights off the virus. This inflammation may indicate that the bumps will soon disappear.
Most growths disappear spontaneously in 1 to 2 years, but they can remain for 2 to 3 years. No treatment is needed unless they are disfiguring or otherwise bothersome. The growths can be treated by freezing or removing their core with a needle or sharp scraping instrument (curette). Sometimes doctors apply trichloroacetic acid or cantharidin to the bumps. Others prescribe retinoic acid or imiquimod cream, which is applied for weeks or months.
Last full review/revision October 2008 by James G. H. Dinulos, MD
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