What is Molluscum Contagiosum and What are the Causes of Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a fairly familiar viral skin transmission that more than often troubles young children.



The infection leads to small little bumps or papules which do not give out any pain and sometimes go away on its own without the use of any treatment. If these tiny bumps are picked at or hurt in any manner, then it is likely that the infection may move from one place to another.



The tiny bumps are usually small, around two to five millimeters in diameter and depicted as having a slight indention or pitting and sometimes a dot on the top of the papule.

These bumps can get red and inflammatory. Although it is is easy to remove these papules with the help of the nails by flicking it off and scratching the surface, it is highly contagious and can spread readily to other parts of the body. Even though this viral infection is often seen among kids, it is likely that the infection my also affect adults. The disease, molluscum contagiosum, which seems harmless in children, can be deadly if it affects adults. Since the infection also involves the genitals it is likely to spread as a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Those who have a compromised immune system are also likely to contract the disease. Molluscum contagiosum is directly transmitted from one person to another. It is disseminated through personal contact and also through physical reach with objects such as doorknobs and faucet handles that have been contaminated. Since this disease can easily be circulated, adults would need immediate medical attention than children.

Molluscum Contagiosum Cure and Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment

In children, the papules in a distinctive manner form on the facial region, on the neck, on the armpits, also on the hands and arms. Among adults, the disease is spread through sexual contact and hence is commonly viewed on the genital region, lower torso, thighs, inner and upper and also on the rear end.

Adults who are infected with molluscum contagiosum also need to be screened for other sexually transmitted diseases. Adults who have a normal and healthy immune system can easily manage the infection without the help of treatment. The infection would take about six months to a year to completely go away on its own. In children however the infection may take longer to go as their immune systems are not fully developed.

There are various medications and therapies that dermatologists use for molluscum contagiosum treatment. The disease is diagnosed in its stages and the doctor determines the best therapy to treat it.