Molluscum
Molluscum contagiosum is a common, contagious viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which belongs to the poxvirus family. It leads to the formation of small, raised, dome-shaped, and smooth skin-colored or pearly bumps (papules) on the skin. These bumps often have a central dimple or core and may appear singly or in clusters.
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance:
- Small (2-5 mm in diameter), firm, round, flesh-colored or white papules with a characteristic central indentation (umbilicated).
- Can sometimes become red and inflamed as the body’s immune system fights the virus.
- Location:
- Commonly appears on the face, neck, armpits, arms, and hands in children, and on the genital or inner thigh area in adults (often related to sexual contact).
- May also appear on other parts of the body, except the palms and soles.
Transmission:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact: Touching the lesions or coming into contact with an infected person.
- Fomite transmission: Sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, or gym equipment.
- Sexual contact: In adults, molluscum contagiosum can be transmitted through sexual activity, often appearing in the genital region.
Who is at Risk:
- Children: It is most common in young children, especially those who come into contact with infected individuals in schools or daycare centers.
- Adults: Molluscum in adults is often transmitted sexually, but it can also affect athletes or people who use shared facilities (e.g., swimming pools, gyms).
- Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant recipients) may experience more widespread and persistent molluscum contagiosum infections.
Symptoms:
- Painless bumps: Molluscum lesions are typically painless, but they can become itchy or irritated.
- Inflammation: In some cases, the immune system responds by causing the bumps to become inflamed or red as the body fights the virus.
Treatment:
Molluscum contagiosum often resolves on its own without treatment within 6 to 12 months, although it may take up to 4 years in some cases. However, treatment may be sought for cosmetic reasons or to prevent the spread of the infection.
- Topical therapies:
- Cantharidin: A blistering agent applied by a healthcare provider.
- Imiquimod cream: An immune response modifier that helps clear the virus.
- Retinoids: Topical retinoid creams may be used to irritate the skin and help eliminate the lesions.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesions with liquid nitrogen.
- Curettage: Surgical removal of the lesions using a small tool to scrape them off.
- Laser therapy: In some cases, laser treatment may be used to remove the lesions.
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