Molluscum Contagiosum Symptoms and Causes

A viral skin infection that results in small round, firm, painless bumps.

Incidence: Common
○ More than 200,000 US cases per year
○ Spreads easily
○ Requires a medical diagnosis
○ Lab tests or imaging rarely required
○ Medium-term: resolves within months without treatment, days to weeks with treatment.

The condition spreads through contact with an infected person or a contaminated object. Though painless, the small bumps might itch. If the bumps are scratched they can spread infection to the surrounding skin. The bumps often disappear on their own but can take many months. The bumps can be removed using medications or other procedures.

Cause of Molluscum Contagiosum: The molluscum virus spreads easily from skin touching skin that has bumps. People also can get it by touching things that have the virus on them, such as toys, clothing, towels, and bedding. Sexually active teens with bumps in the groin or inner thighs can spread them to partners.