Molluscum contagiosum is a very common viral cutaneous infection, which manifests as small, round, flesh-coloured or pinkish bumps on the skin. It often clears on its own but might be worrisome and even necessary to treat if it spreads or becomes persistent. If you are wondering about the causes, symptoms, treatments, or prevention of molluscum contagiosum, Dr Vedant Ghuse- the best dermatologist in Chembur gives all the answers in this blog.
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus of the poxvirus family. The virus primarily infects the outermost skin layer and causes small bumps or lesions that appear usually firm and smooth. It can appear practically anywhere on the body but often occurs on the face, neck, arms, and genital regions.
This condition is very infectious, though not serious or life-threatening. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact with direct contact with the patient or by using the same object, such as towels, razors, or sports equipment. The most exposed are children between 1 and 10 years, though adults are not excluded; especially in the genital area.
The most obvious symptom of molluscum contagiosum consists of small, dome-shaped bumps under the skin. They usually are:
Sometimes, the bumps may turn red, swollen, or even filled with pus due to inflammation or infection that the lesions cause. Scratching or picking at the lesions can make this worse, and spread the infection to other parts of the body, or to people.
The virus spreads through direct personal contact with an infected person. Mainly the ways it spreads are through:
Molluscum contagiosum is contagious as long as the lesions exist. Even if it is not visible, or even in its initial stages, the virus can easily be transmitted.
A professional like Dr Vedant Ghuse- a trusted dermatologist in Ghatkopar can often diagnose molluscum contagiosum based on skin examination and the appearance of the bumps; in some cases, a skin biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis.
Generally, molluscum contagiosum heals on its own in 6 to 12 months because the body finally fights the infection. However, treatment is often recommended when there are many lesions, or they persist, or sometimes they cause pain.
Because molluscum contagiosum is contagious, preventing this is basic. Some self-care tips to minimise the chances of transmission:
Molluscum contagiosum is a relatively common infection of the skin, but an incredibly manageable one. While it usually resolves spontaneously, treatment might sometimes be necessary to accelerate the process or to avoid more widespread activation of the infection. If someone suspects they have molluscum contagiosum or the lesions are causing some form of discomfort, visiting an expert like Dr Vedant Ghuse- a renowned dermatologist in Tilak Nagar can help make an informed decision.