Molluscum contagiosum Treatment

The main symptoms of Molluscum contagiosum include small clusters of firm, raised spots known as mollusca that appear on the skin. These lesions are usually round with a characteristic small dimple in the middle, typically pink or red, measuring around 2–5mm in size. They appear smooth and shiny, resembling pearls.

While these spots are not painful, they can sometimes be itchy.

Mollusca can appear anywhere on the body; however, in children, they tend to manifest around the face, neck, chest, arms, or legs. In adults, they typically emerge around the genitals, anus, groin, buttocks, abdomen, or thighs. Lesions are rarely found in the mouth, on the soles of the feet, or palms of the hands.

In the case of Molluscum contagiosum, the incubation period is typically 2–8 weeks. However, it is important to note that lesions can manifest as early as one week after exposure or may even take up to six months to appear.

Infection with Molluscum contagiosum may occur without the presence of characteristic lesions. Research indicates that some individuals possess antibodies to the molluscum virus despite having no recollection of ever experiencing mollusca. In certain cases, the lesions may be very small or subtle that they are unnoticable.

Molluscum contagiosum is a pox virus that can be transmitted through:

• Close direct contact, including touching the skin of an infected person.
• Contact with contaminated objects belonging to the infected person, such as towels, flannels, and clothing.
• Sexual contact, including sexual intercourse.

Once infected, the virus can be spread to other areas of your own body by picking, scratching, or squeezing the lesions.

• People with a partner who has Molluscum contagiosum
• Children between the ages of 1–10
• Those who live in a tropical climate
• People with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV or cancer)
• Those with atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• People who participate in contact sports or swimming

Although Molluscum contagiosum can be transmitted through sexual contact, it is not generally considered a sexually transmitted infection due to its ability to spread via simple skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual.

Molluscum contagiosum can be cured, but it may take some time. The condition usually goes away on its own within 6 to 12 months, but treatment can help speed up the healing process.

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) can be treated in a few ways:

1. Hyfrecation: This is the most effective method of treating MC.

Treating Molluscum contagiosum has several benefits. It can help prevent the spread of the virus to others, reduce the risk of complications such as secondary infections, and minimise scarring or skin changes that may occur as a result of the condition.

You can keep the affected area clean and dry, avoid scratching or picking at the lesions, and avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

It is important to note that home remedies may not be as effective as medical treatments, so it is recommended to consult with a clinician for proper evaluation and treatment.

Molluscum contagiosum can be diagnosed clinically in over 99% of cases. Your clinician will take a history, examine your skin, and will be able to provide a diagnosis without needing any additional investigations or tests.

Genital warts are skin outgrowths triggered by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), whereas Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). The appearance of genital warts is typically more 'cauliflower-like', exhibiting an irregular shape, and tends to be softer and more fleshy. In contrast, MCV lesions are rounder, flatter, and firmer, featuring a distinctive central spot.

The best time to book your Molluscum contagiosum treatment is as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent the spread of the virus and reduce the risk of complications. It is important to consult with a clinician to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your specific case.

If you have booked in for a consultation to assess whether being treated is the best decision for you, we recommend to gather any relevant medical history, including any previous skin conditions or treatments, in order to have a thorough discussion . If you have any specific concerns or questions, it may be helpful to write them down.

If you have booked in for your treatment, following an assessment and a quote being offered, we recommend that you do the following before your appointment:

• Have a shower on the day of your appointment to reduce the risk of infection.
• Have a meal in the morning of the procedure.
• Take 2 paracetamol tablets, 1 hour before your appointment time for pain relief.
• Trim pubic area so that the lesions can be easily seen (where appropriate). Do not shave.
• We recommend that you drive or use public transportation to attend your appointment and to get home. Cycling is not recommended.