Family Tree Clinic

STIS and HIV

Molluscum

These are typically soft, tiny, white pearly lumps – each with a central dent. They are caused by a virus on the skin. They are common in children, and can occur on the face, arms, abdomen, genitals and thighs.

What are the Symptoms?

Molluscum contagiosum is a superficial skin infection. The virus invades the skin causing the appearance of firm, flesh-colored, doughnut-shaped bumps, about 2-5 mm in diameter. Their sunken centers contain a white, curdy-type material. the bumps can occur almost anywhere on the body including the buttocks, thighs and external genitalia. The bumps often remain unchanged for many months, after which they disappear.

How Do You Get It?

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus belonging to the poxvirus family. Close physical contact is usually necessary for transmission; indirect transmission from shared towels, swimming pools, etc., may also be responsible for infection. The incubation period varies from several weeks to several months. Shaving or scratching may cause the infection to spread.

What is the Treatment?

Avoid shaving infected areas. Treatment is done for aesthetic reasons and to prevent spread of the virus. The goal of treatment is to remove the soft center, after which the bump goes away. Your health care provider may use a curette (sharp, spoon-shaped instrument) to remove the centers. Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen or nitrous oxide is an alternative treatment.