Molluscum Contagiosum

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What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection caused by a virus. It is a nuisance, but not dangerous.

Molluscum Contagiosum

How is molluscum contagiosum spread?

Direct skin-to-skin contact, including close contact with a sexual partner
Scratching, which will cause the lumps to spread from one part of the body to another
Contact with contaminated clothing or towels

What are the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum?

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum can appear within 1-6 weeks after exposure.

Molluscum contagiosum first appears as very small (about ⅛ inch across), smooth, round, pearly bumps that are indented in the middle
They may be on or around the genital area, on the abdomen, inner thighs, or other places on your body
There may be one or two bumps, 10 to 20 bumps, or more than 50
The bumps aren't painful, but they may be itchy. They can get infected and become red and sore. However, redness and soreness can also mean that they are healing naturally. Be sure to check with your health care provider.

How is molluscum contagiosum treated?

Molluscum contagiosum bumps may go away by themselves, but treatment shortens how long you have them. The lumps may still take a couple of weeks to disappear after treatment.

Your health care provider might prescribe:

Medicine to apply to the lumps
Medicine to take by mouth

Without treatment, molluscum contagiosum can last for 6 months to 2 years.

How can you prevent spreading molluscum contagiosum?

It is important to know that molluscum contagiosum is contagious until the bumps are gone.

Here are some things you can do to prevent spreading it:

Keep the infected area clean
Try not to scratch
Avoid shaving if there are bumps on your face
Avoid having sex if there are bumps on your genital area
Don’t share clothing or towels

Written by the CYWH and YMH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

Updated: 2/22/2010

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