Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum, or molluscum contagiosum, is a common viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). This benign condition typically presents with pink, round bumps with a central indentation. The number of bumps can range in number (few to hundreds) and in size (1-6mm). The bumps can appear anywhere on the skin but prefer warm and damp environments such as: armpits, area behind the knees, crooks of the arms, and groin area. Molluscum contagiosum most frequently affects young children between the ages of 1 and 10. In teenagers and adults, molluscum most frequently presents as a sexually transmitted infection with lesions noted in the groin region. The condition is self limited, with lesions resolving on their own even without treatment. Resolution can take months to years. Treatment options are available including topical therapies and cryotherapy (treatment with liquid nitrogen).