Molluscum Contagiosum

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) calls molluscum contagiosum a common viral infection (Read about "Microorganisms") that most often affects young children. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says molluscum is usually passed via skin to skin contact. (Read about "Skin") It is especially common among grade school age children, as well as children who participate in contact sports such as wrestling.

Adults can be affected as well. In adults, the virus, which is part of the poxvirus family, is often transmitted sexually (Read about "STD's"), resulting in lesions on the genitals, lower abdomen, buttocks or inner thighs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus causes small white, pink, or flesh-colored raised bumps or growths with a dimple or pit in the center. The bumps are usually smooth and firm. In most people, the growths range from about the size of a pinhead to as large as a pencil eraser. Sometimes the lesions may itch or become irritated.

NIAID says the lesions often heal without treatment, usually in under a year, although sometimes longer. Physicians may sometimes scrape them off or treat them with chemical irritants, much the same way warts (Read about "Warts") are treated.

CDC says molluscum infections occur worldwide but are more common in warm, humid climates and where living conditions are crowded. Although not limited to children, it is most common in children 1 to 10 years of age. People with weakened immune systems - such as HIV-infected persons or persons being treated for cancer (Read about "HIV / AIDS" "Cancer Treatments") - are at higher risk for getting molluscum, and their growths may look different, be larger and be more difficult to treat.

CDC says the virus that causes molluscum is spread from person to person by touching the affected skin. The virus may also be spread by touching a surface with the virus on it, such as a towel, clothing or toys. Once someone has the virus, the bumps can spread to other parts of their body by touching or scratching a bump and then touching another part of the body. According to CDC, it is important to keep the area with growths clean and covered with clothing or a bandage when you are around other people, so that they do not touch the bumps and become infected. Because of its infectious nature, people who suspect they have molluscum contagiosum should see their healthcare provider. Often, the condition will be left to clear on its own. In some cases, cryotherapy, lasers or creams may be used to remove the bumps.