Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum Contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin that results in round, firm, painless bumps ranging in size from a pinhead to a pencil eraser. If the bumps are scratched or injured, the infection can spread to surrounding skin. Molluscum contagiosum also spreads through person-to-person contact and contact with infected objects. Though most common in children, Molluscum contagiosum can affect adults as well — particularly those with weakened immune systems., Molluscum contagiosum involving the genitals is considered a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of molluscum contagiosum include bumps on the skin that:

• Are raised, round and flesh-coloured.
• Characteristically have a small indentation (umbilication) or dot at the top near the center.
• Can become red and inflamed, itchy.

Location: Usually appear on the face, neck, armpits, arms, and tops of the hands in children. May also be seen on the genitals, lower abdomen and inner upper thighs in adults if the infection was sexually transmitted.

Causes

The virus that causes molluscum contagiosum spreads easily through:

• Skin-to-skin contact.
• Contact with contaminated objects, such as towels.
• Sexual contact with an affected partner.
• Scratching or rubbing the bumps, which spreads the virus to nearby skin.

Preventions

• Wash your hands: Keeping your hands clean can help prevent spreading the virus.
• Avoid touching the bumps: Shaving over the infected areas also can spread the virus.
• Don’t share personal items: This includes clothing, towels, hair brushes or other personal items. Refrain from borrowing these items from others as well.