Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum

It is a mild skin virus, which appears in the form of a small rash that resembles swellings, or small bumps known as mollusks, and is usually white, pink, or skin-colored, in addition to being shiny, soft, and has a pearly appearance. It is common among children between the ages of one to 12 years, and in this article we will mention information about this disease.

Information about molluscum contagiosum

• The molluscum contagiosum virus is a virus of the smallpox family, but it spreads in humid and hot areas, or in areas with contiguous neighborhoods.
• Infection occurs as a result of the virus attacking a superficial wound in the skin, and the rash usually appears within 2-7 weeks from the date of exposure.
• The infection spreads among children; As a result of direct contact between the skin and the skin of the injured person, or as a result of touching some of their tools contaminated with saliva, such as clothes, towels, toys, bedding, and others.
• The virus spreads from one part of the body to another when sores are rubbed or scratched.

People exposed to molluscum contagiosum

• Athletes who have direct contact with skin when competing with one another, such as gymnasts and wrestlers.
• People who suffer from low immune capacity, due to some health problems, such as cancer, HIV, and others.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum

There are some symptoms that indicate infection with molluscum contagiosum, including: the appearance of bumps on the skin, and its filling with a waxy or white core containing the virus, in addition to its small head that resembles a pin, which usually grows after several weeks, to become as large as the size of a pea, as it may appear at times A small boil at the head of each bump, and it must be noted that these bumps show one group or bump, and they are usually painless, but they cause inflammation, itching, swelling, and redness.

Complications of molluscum contagiosum

• Deformation of the skin.
• The condition turns into a secondary infection that requires treatment with antibiotics.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum usually disappears on its own, within a period ranging between 6-9 months from the date of infection, and it can last up to 4 years, and it may require some treatments, including:

• Remove the center of infection by applying pressure to the bumps with forceps.
• The polyps are removed by freezing them, which is known as cryotherapy, or by scraping them with a sharp tool.
• Apply a cream or chemical agent to it.
• Take some types of medication.

Methods of prevention of molluscum contagiosum

• Wash hands with soap and water.
• Avoid sharing clothes or personal items.
• Stay away from participating in water games.
• Avoid touching or scratching the blisters or the bumps.