What Causes Molluscum Contagiosum?

Posted on Sat, 12 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 12 Sep 2015 Answered on

Mon, 5 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Need confirmation this is molluscum.
Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Molluscum Contagiosum

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and i understand your concern. Yes it appears to be a molluscum contagiosum. The viral infection explain this rounded, dome-shaped, pink, waxy papules that are 2-5 mm (rarely up to 1.5 cm in the case of a giant molluscus) in diameter. The papules are umbilicated and contain a caseous plug and fit the description of mollusccum contagiosum.

Usually these do not need treatment and self resolve , but due to ability to transmit sexually, we recommend topical dissolving gents like salicylic acid, potassium hydroxide, tretinoin etc. Doctors may remove it cosmetically as well using scrapn, freezing and laser therapy.

Nutshell talk to your dermatologist and let them help you in this regard.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.

Regards
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (11 minutes later)

Is it common for the virus cause two molluscum bumps that pink/raised?

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for getting back to me

Yes it is and can happen rather happen most of the time. Just do as directed talk to your dermatologist and see what they have to say.

I hope it helps.
Regards
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar