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Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that can develop anywhere on the body. Although it is often harmless, it is highly contagious. If you notice a new grouping of flesh-colored bumps, we encourage you to visit our team at Biltmore Dermatology.
What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum manifests as groupings of raised, flesh-colored bumps with dimples or dents in the center. These are smooth, firm lesions that can range in size from the diameter of a pinhead to the size of a pencil eraser. They may also be itchy or sore to the touch. Patients typically experience as many as 10-20 lesions in the infected area but people with weakened immune systems can experience upwards of a hundred lesions.
What Causes Molluscum Contagiosum?
This condition is a skin disease caused by a virus that can be highly contagious. This condition is sometimes called water warts because it is often transmitted by sharing towels, bathing equipment, and pool toys. It can also spread through physical or sexual contact between people. Re-infection in patients is also a possibility if you scratch or touch an existing bump and immediately touch a different area of skin.
How is Molluscum Contagiosum Treated?
This skin condition will often go away on its own within 6-12 months, but there are treatment options to quickly get rid of these bothersome bumps. Topical applications of salicylic acid, tretinoin, or cantharidin can destroy the bumps to prevent the spread of infection. Physical removal with cryotherapy or laser treatment is also an option. However, new bumps may continue to grow after treatment until the virus has run its course.
WALK-IN APPOINTMENTS
If you have an immediate concern, you want to find quality care as soon as possible. Our office takes walk-in appointments and will be happy to address your concerns and offer you immediate treatment suggestions and medical care.
LEARN MOREMolluscum Contagiosum Prevention
Good hygiene is the best way to prevent molluscum contagiosum. Avoid sharing towels and clean your skin thoroughly after swimming in a public pool or sitting in a sauna. If you do notice the development of skin bumps, avoid touching and scratching them. Keep the lesions covered and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer when you come in contact with other people.
Schedule A Consultation
A dermatology-certified provider, like Ryan Patterson, can offer many treatment recommendations for molluscum contagiosum. To schedule a consultation, contact Biltmore Dermatology or simply visit our office for a walk-in appointment.
RYAN T. PATTERSON FOUNDER/CEO, DCNP
Ryan is State Licensed and Nationally Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (NP-C) by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Additionally, he is board certified as a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP) by the Dermatology Nursing Certification Board. He has 20+ years of Dermatology Experience.
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