Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is more common in children, but anyone can get it.

Usually, the only symptom of molluscum contagiosum is spots.

The spots are about 2 to 5mm wide and usually appear together. They are raised and dome-shaped with a shiny white dimple in the middle.

Children with the infection often get spots on their body and in or around folds of skin, such as the groin, behind the knee and armpits.

In adults where the infection is spread through sexual contact, spots may be around the lower tummy, genital area and thighs.

Someone with a weakened immune system may get spots on the face or around the eyes, or have lots of spots or bigger spots.

The spots caused by molluscum contagiosum are usually harmless and should clear up within 18 months without needing treatment.

Molluscum contagiosum is contagious. It is usually passed on by direct skin to skin contact.

The chance of passing it on to other people during normal activities is small so you or your child should be able to carry on with your normal activities. If you are not sure, check with a GP.

There are some things you can do to help reduce the risk of the infection spreading and help ease any symptoms.

• try things to help with dryness and itchy skin, such as holding a damp towel against the skin, having cool baths or using an unperfumed moisturiser regularly

• keep the affected area covered, including using waterproof bandages if you go swimming

• use a condom while having sex if you are infected

• do not squeeze or scratch the spots, as it could cause an infection or scarring

• do not share baths or things such as towels, bedding or clothes

• you're not sure your spots are caused by molluscum contagiosum
• the spots are very itchy, painful, swollen or covered with crusts
• you have spots near your eyes or genitals
• you have a weakened immune system and think you may have molluscum contagiosum

It's rare to need treatment for molluscum contagiosum because it usually clears up on its own.

But treatment may be recommended if the spots are causing problems.

For example, a GP may suggest:

• antibiotics if your spots become infected
• steroid cream to treat skin that's itchy, dry or sore (like an eczema rash caused by the spots)

A GP may refer you to a specialist for tests and treatment if:

• you have lots of spots or the spots are having a big impact on your life
• you have spots near your eyes, eyelids or genitals
• you have a weakened immune system – for example, if you're having chemotherapy or have HIV

Usually the only symptom of molluscum contagiosum is raised, dome-shaped spots with a shiny white middle.

Molluscum contagiosum is usually harmless and clears up on its own within 18 months. Avoid sharing clothes and towels to help stop it spreading.

Molluscum contagiosum usually only needs to be treated if the spots cause problems. For example, antibiotics may be needed if the spots are infected.