Molluscum contagiosum

What is Molluscum Contagiosum ?

• This is a skin infection caused by a pox virus.
• It is a common infection in children.
• It is transmitted by skin contact with an infected person.

What are the signs of Molluscum Contagiosum ?

• The infection presents as small discrete, round, pearly-white growths on the skin, with central umbilication.
• There may be single or multiple growths on the skin. These growths are usually symptomless.
• Common sites of infection are the:

1. eyelids
2. neck
3. trunk
4. anogenital area.

Molluscum Contagiosum (Neck)

How can the infection be eradicated ?

• They are best treated by your doctor with:

1. Trichloroacetic acid applications
2. Liquid nitrogen applications
3. Light electrosurgery

• However, the lesions tend to come back.

Contributors:

Dr Christophe HSU – dermatologist. Geneva, Switzerland

National Skin Centre. Singapore