Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It is characterized by the development of small, raised, round, and flesh-colored or pinkish-white bumps on the skin. The bumps may have a dimple in the center and can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, neck, arms, and hands.

Molluscum contagiosum is spread through skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated objects such as towels or toys. It is most common in children, but can also affect adults, especially those with weakened immune systems.

In most cases, molluscum contagiosum is a benign condition that does not cause significant health problems. However, the bumps can be itchy or sore, and may become infected if scratched. Treatment options for molluscum contagiosum may include:

• Topical medications: Over-the-counter creams containing salicylic acid, retinoids, or imiquimod may help to remove the bumps. Prescription medications such as cantharidin or tretinoin may also be used.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the bumps with liquid nitrogen can help to destroy the virus and remove the bumps.
• Curettage: Scraping the bumps off the skin with a sharp tool under local anesthesia can be an effective treatment option.
• Laser therapy: Using a laser to destroy the bumps may be an option for larger or harder-to-treat lesions.

Prevention of molluscum contagiosum involves avoiding skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals, not sharing personal items such as towels or clothing, and practicing good hygiene such as frequent hand-washing. It is also important to avoid scratching or picking at the bumps to prevent infection and further spread of the virus.

The virus that causes molluscum contagiosum spreads easily through:

• Skin-to-skin contact
• Contact with contaminated objects, such as towels
• Sexual contact with an affected partner
• Scratching or rubbing the bumps, which spreads the virus to nearby skin

It's not clear if the molluscum contagiosum virus can spread in the chlorinated water found in swimming pools. Experts suspect that it's more likely that swimmers transmit the virus through shared use of towels; equipment, such as kickboards; or skin contact.

To help prevent the spread of the virus:

• Wash your hands. Keeping your hands clean can help prevent spreading the virus.
• Avoid touching the bumps. Shaving over the infected areas also can spread the virus.
• Don't share personal items. This includes clothing, towels, hairbrushes or other personal items. Refrain from borrowing these items from others as well.
• Avoid sexual contact. If you have molluscum contagiosum on or near your genitals, don't have sex until the bumps are treated and have completely disappeared.
• Cover the bumps. Cover the bumps with clothing when around others, to prevent direct contact. When swimming, cover the bumps with a watertight bandage.

Molluscum contagiosum usually gets better without treatment in six to 12 months. However, it's possible to continue developing bumps for up to five years. Once all of your bumps are gone, you're no longer contagious.

Doctors may recommend that the lesions be removed before they disappear on their own, particularly in adults, because they are so contagious. Treatments for molluscum contagiosum can be painful, so an anesthetic might be administered beforehand to lessen discomfort. Sometimes a combination of treatments may be used.

Options include:

• Scraping
• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• A medicine that causes blisters (cantharidin), which lift off the bumps