Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection that is caused by a virus. The infection causes small, dimpled, skin-coloured bumps called papules to develop on the skin.
The infection is more common in warm, humid climates, especially when living conditions are crowded, but it can occur anywhere throughout the world. Children 1 to 10 years of age are more commonly affected. It is a mild skin infection and seldom serious, but can be more severe for people with a weak immune system.
Without treatment, molluscum contagiosum typically clears within a year. Treatment may be recommended, however, to prevent spreading the infection.
Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection caused by a poxvirus. This virus is spread from person to person either by touching the affected skin area or by sexual contact when the genital area is affected. The virus can also temporarily survive on surfaces (e.g., towels, wash cloths, clothing, toys, door handles) and be spread to individuals that come into contact with these surfaces.
Once you have been infected with the virus and touch or scratch the affected area, you can spread it to other parts of your body by touching or scratching other areas of your body.
One of the best ways to prevent infections, including molluscum contagiosum, is to wash hands frequently and properly. If you do become infected, keep in mind that it is a mild infection that is typically cleared by your body within several months without treatment. However, some lesions can remain for up to 2 to 3 years.
The following tips can help prevent spreading the infection to other parts of your body and to other people:
Because this infection usually clears up on its own, your doctor may not recommend treatment beyond the strategies mentioned above to prevent its spread. Depending on your age and risk of spreading the infection, your doctor may discuss several treatment options with you. The options may include:
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2026. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Molluscum-Contagiosum
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