Introduction
Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection caused by a poxvirus. It's highly contagious and characterized by small, raised, pearly or flesh-colored bumps on the skin. These bumps, called mollusca, are usually painless but can sometimes become itchy or irritated.
While molluscum contagiosum can affect anyone, it's most prevalent in children, sexually active adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, contact with contaminated objects (like towels or clothing), and sexual contact.
Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
The primary symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the appearance of mollusca. These bumps are typically:
- Small and round: Ranging in size from a pinhead to a pencil eraser.
- Pearly or flesh-colored: They might also have a slightly pink or white hue.
- Dome-shaped with a central indentation: This indentation is often filled with a white, cheesy substance.
Mollusca can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the face, trunk, arms, and legs. In children, they frequently appear on the face, trunk, arms, and legs. In adults, mollusca often occur in the genital area.
Causes and Transmission
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), a type of poxvirus. Transmission occurs through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact: This is the most common mode of transmission, especially among children.
- Contact with contaminated objects: Sharing towels, clothing, toys, or other personal items can spread the virus.
- Sexual contact: Molluscum contagiosum can be transmitted through sexual contact, leading to lesions in the genital area.
- Autoinoculation: Scratching or picking at mollusca can spread the virus to other parts of the body.
Treatment Options
In many cases, molluscum contagiosum resolves on its own without treatment within 6 to 12 months. However, treatment might be necessary if:
- The lesions are causing discomfort or embarrassment.
- The lesions are widespread or located in sensitive areas.
- The individual has a weakened immune system.
Treatment options include:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the mollusca with liquid nitrogen.
- Curettage: Scraping off the mollusca with a small surgical tool.
- Chemical treatments: Applying medications like cantharidin or tretinoin to the lesions.
- Laser therapy: Using a laser to destroy the mollusca.
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
