Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease characterized by the presence of “molluscum” (dome-shaped growths with central indentations, which resemble a certain type of mollusk) on the affected areas. It is a common skin disease, usually transferred from person to person by skin contact or by sharing objects infected with the virus. It appears on children more frequently than on adults.

Causes Of Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin disease caused by a virus which resides and affects the outer layers of the skin. The virus that causes molluscum contagiosum belongs to the poxvirus family and it is part of the Molluscipox virus genus. It is able to jump the barrier of species, and some cases of animal infections (mostly birds and primates) have been observed.

This viral agent has the ability to enter the skin through the small breaks usually present in hair follicles. It affects the skin and presents no risk of infection for any internal organs (the virus is confined to the skin and mucous membranes only).

Symptoms Of Molluscum Contagiosum

The most noticeable symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the presence of tiny pink, red or brown dome-shaped protuberances (molluscum) that usually present inflammation. They usually appear shiny and have a small “hole” (indentation) in the center, usually white and waxy.

They are usually found in those parts of the skin that are in contact with others (typically groin and arms), but they can also be found on the chest, legs, face and even eyelids. Additionally, these protuberances can reach a large size on people with deficiencies in their immune system.

Treatment Of Molluscum Contagiosum

Although molluscum contagiosum is a self limited disease that eventually disappears leaving no scar, it is often treated to accelerate its healing process. Electrocautery (burning by electric needle) is a common treatment, as well as applying acid solutions or certain topical antiviral medications to the affected areas. Also, laser treatment has been found to be effective in treating molluscum contagiosum.

Cryosurgery (freezing the molluscum with dry ice or liquid nitrogen) is very effective in curing this disease. Most people, however, prefer evisceration (carefully removing the core of the molluscum with a sharp tool), which is a procedure that can be performed by anyone if properly taught; therefore it is suitable for an at-home treatment.

Prevention Of Molluscum Contagiosum

Prevention of molluscum contagiosum consists mainly in avoiding contact with infected people, including skin-to-skin contact as well as sharing common objects that get in touch with the skin, like towels and handkerchiefs. It is also important not to share a swimming pool or a hot tub with a person suffering from this disease.

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