Molluscum

Molluscum Contagiosum

Common skin rash in children caused by a viral infection. Looks like small growths (wart-like) that are pink, white or skin-colored. The growths are smooth and shiny and sometimes have indented center. The rash is not harmful.

What To Expect:

  • Most common in children age 1-12 years old and athletes with direct skin-to-skin contact
  • Starts as a small spot (pinhead) and grows over several weeks into larger spot (pea size or pencil eraser)
  • Can grow alone or in groups or clusters
  • Most commonly found on chest, abdomen, armpits, legs, groin, face and genital area

Important to Know:

  • Most common in children aged 1-12 years old
  • Virus enters a small break in the skin; growths usually appear after 2-7 weeks of infection
  • Spreads easily: direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching objects that have viruses on them (toys, clothing, etc.)
  • Can be spread from one part of body to another by scratching or rubbing the bumps and then touching another body part
  • Most people develop 1-20 spots; usually painless but can become red and itchy if scratched
  • No treatment is recommended as it can be very painful, cause blisters, and not always work.
  • The bumps can last 6-18 months
  • Infection prevention: do not touch, scratch, or rub growths; wash hands thoroughly; keep area clean

When to call the clinic:

  • If concern of infection: surrounding redness, warmth or oozing

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