Molluscum contagiosum, sometimes called water warts, is a common viral skin infection (poxvirus) with multiple small smooth wart-like lesions with a small pit in the middle. They are most common in children, but adults can also be affected.
Children who have other skin problems, such as eczema, are more likely than others to be affected. Children can spread the infection to a new location by scratching them. Immunity for life is most likely acquired once you have been infected. In addition, people with AIDS or compromised immune systems may develop extensive outbreaks. The incubation period can range from two weeks up to about six months.
Symptoms
Molluscum contagiosum lesions are typically small (2–5 mm), smooth, raised bumps that are the same colour as your skin or slightly pink, often with a central dimple or pit. In children, these bumps most commonly occur on the face, neck, arms, and trunk. The number of lesions can vary from just one to many.
They often resolve gradually over several months, though new lesions can appear during this time. In adults, molluscum contagiosum is more often seen in the genital area, lower abdomen, and inner thighs, and it can be sexually transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact.
What can I do?
Molluscum contagiosum usually clears on its own without the need for treatment. Before they resolve, the spots may become red and inflamed. This is a normal sign that the body is healing. Waiting for natural resolution lowers the risk of scarring.
You do not need to keep children with molluscum off school or nursery, but avoid activities that may involve skin contact or sharing personal items. Keeping nails short and clean helps reduce the chance of skin infections from scratching. To avoid spreading the virus, do not share towels, flannels, or clothing, and cover visible spots with clothing or a waterproof bandage if necessary. Adults with genital lesions should avoid sexual contact until the bumps have cleared.
Should I seek medical care?
Most cases of molluscum contagiosum do not require medical treatment, as the condition usually clears on its own over several months. However, you should seek medical advice if the lesions become red, swollen, or painful, if they are causing significant distress or cosmetic concern, or if they appear in people with weakened immune systems. Treatments are generally avoided in children unless necessary, as they can be uncomfortable and may cause scarring.
Treatment
Molluscum lesions are rarely treated because often they heal by themselves after some time and the procedure can cause harm. It is rare to remove mollusks. Treatment is needed only in rare cases, when mollusks is inappropriate or uncomfortable, such as those located on the face. If mollusks are removed, it has to be done by a dermatologist. Sometimes, if one is removed by scraping, the immune system will react towards any remaining ones.
