molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, a member of the poxvirus family. It results in small, raised, round, firm, painless bumps or lesions on the skin that are typically flesh-colored, pink, or pearl-like with a characteristic dimple or dent in the center. The bumps usually range in size from a pinhead to about 5 millimeters or slightly larger. Though mostly seen in children, it can also affect adults, especially those with weakened immune systems or through sexual contact in adults. Transmission occurs through direct skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact, or indirect contact with contaminated objects such as towels, clothing, or toys. The virus can also spread by scratching the lesions and then touching other parts of the body, leading to autoinoculation. The lesions commonly appear on the face, trunk, arms, and legs in children, while adults often have lesions in the genital area if infected sexually. Symptoms primarily include the appearance of these small bumps, which may be itchy or sore but are generally painless. The infection is usually benign and self- limiting, with lesions commonly resolving on their own within six months to two years without scarring. Although treatment is normally not necessary, options exist for removing the bumps for cosmetic reasons or to prevent spreading, including cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or topical medications. Scraping or other physical removal methods carry the risk of scarring. Precautions to avoid spreading include avoiding scratching or picking the bumps, not sharing personal items like towels or clothing, covering lesions during activities like swimming, and using condoms during sexual activity if genital lesions are present. In summary, molluscum contagiosum is a contagious but generally harmless skin infection that creates distinctive raised bumps and typically resolves without treatment, though care should be taken to prevent spreading the virus to others or other parts of the body.