Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that primarily affects children but can also impact adults. It appears as small, pearly white bumps on the skin — typically painless and harmless, but contagious.
In this article we explain exactly what molluscum contagiosum is, how it spreads, what it looks like, and what treatment options are available.
What is molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which belongs to the poxvirus family. The virus targets cells in the outermost layer of the skin, creating small, benign bumps with a characteristic pearly sheen.
The bumps — called mollusca — typically have a small, central dimple (umbilication). They are almost always painless and often disappear on their own within 6–12 months, although some can last for several years.
What does molluscum contagiosum look like?
The classic signs of molluscum contagiosum include:
- Small, pearly white bumps: Typically 2–5 mm in diameter with a smooth, dome-shaped surface and a characteristic central dimple.
- Multiple bumps: They often appear in clusters but can also occur scattered across different parts of the body.
- Painless: The bumps usually cause no pain or discomfort.
- Common locations: The face, arms, legs, torso and armpits are the most commonly affected areas.
Why does molluscum contagiosum happen?
The molluscum contagiosum virus spreads easily through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated objects. Transmission can occur in several ways:
How does direct skin contact spread it?
Direct contact with an infected person is the most common route of transmission. This can occur through play, sports, cuddling and sexual activity.
Can objects transmit the virus?
The virus can be transferred via towels, washcloths, shared toys and playground equipment. Swimming pool water itself does not spread it, but shared towels, kickboards and close skin contact at the poolside do. This is particularly relevant in environments with many children.
How do the bumps spread on your own skin?
Scratching or picking existing bumps can transfer the virus to other areas of your own skin — this is called autoinoculation.
Who gets molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is most common in children between 1–10 years old, but can affect people of all ages:
- Children: Especially children of preschool and school age due to close play and contact with other children.
- Children with eczema: Children with atopic dermatitis often develop more numerous and more widespread mollusca, because the skin barrier is impaired and itching leads to scratching.
- Adults: Adults can become infected, particularly through sexual contact or if they have a weakened immune system.
- Immunocompromised individuals: People with HIV/AIDS, organ transplants or other conditions that weaken the immune system are more susceptible and may develop more and larger bumps.
What can you do about molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum often resolves on its own, but treatment can speed up healing and reduce the risk of spreading:
Watchful waiting (especially in children)
Since bumps often disappear on their own, watchful waiting is an option — especially if the child is not bothered by the bumps.
Topical medications
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution is the most commonly used topical option and can be applied at home on a doctor's advice. Cantharidin is applied in the clinic by a doctor. Podophyllotoxin is not recommended for children.
Cryotherapy
Freezing the bumps with liquid nitrogen. An effective method that typically requires several treatments.
Curettage / extraction
Removal of the bumps using a sterile curette or forceps. Performed by a doctor.
How can you prevent it from spreading?
To reduce the risk of infection and spread, it is important to:
- Avoid picking or scratching the bumps
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
- Avoid sharing personal items such as towels and washcloths
- Cover the bumps during close contact with others
- Clean shared toys and surfaces
Medical classification: Molluscum contagiosum is classified as 1E76 in the WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). It is a viral infection presenting as dome-shaped, umbilicated papules. Treatment includes watchful waiting, topical agents, cryotherapy and curettage.
Frequently asked questions
Is molluscum contagiosum dangerous?
Molluscum contagiosum is usually harmless and often disappears on its own. However, it can be cosmetically bothersome, and the bumps can become infected if picked at.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if the bumps become very numerous, spread rapidly, cause discomfort, turn red and sore, or do not improve with self-care. In people with weakened immune systems, the condition should always be evaluated by a doctor.
Can adults get molluscum contagiosum?
Yes, adults can become infected. In adults it often occurs through sexual contact and can affect the genital area; when it does, screening for other sexually transmitted infections should be offered, and the bumps can be confused with genital warts. Molluscum in the genital area of a young child should always be assessed by a doctor. The condition is generally milder in healthy adults.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist for personal guidance and assessment of skin changes.