What Do Dots And Circular Spots On The Hands And Fingers Indicate?

Posted on Wed, 28 Feb 2018

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

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 Answered on

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello Doctor, I've been wanting to get this condition checked, but never bothered. I'm attaching a picture of my left hand where you'll see that in the middle there are some round/circle shaped spots/dots. They've never troubled me though, but I just wonder why do they appear on my skin and how to get rid of them. After sometime, the heads get dried out and then I get an urge to peel off the top. Doing so gives me a temporary feeling of subsiding it, but it kind of grows back. It is not very bulging though, but is a bothering thing on my left hand. Recently (couple of years), they also starter appearing (2 dots) on my fingers. Middle finger lower inner side, where it touches the ring finger. I'm curious to know if this is of any threat or not. Any corrective measures that I should take? Please suggest/advice.

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (-2 hours later)

Brief Answer:

It seems Molluscum Contagiosum

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

From the photos and detailed description, it seems Molluscum Contagiosum. Direct examination by a dermatologist is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Molluscum is a viral infection and is contagious when the bump is there. It can spread by sharing towels, touching, direct spread from one body part to another etc.

There are no home remedies to treat this infection. You can take antiseptic measures to avoid direct spread. Wash hands often, avoid sharing towels, hand sanitizer, etc.

There are many treatment options like cryotherapy, surgical removal by extirpation, topical application of salicylic acid, TCA, tretinoin, etc.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Vaishalee Punj (30 minutes later)

Thank you Dr. Vaishalee for the prompt response.
Well, I never knew that this is contagious, and so never took precautions to prevent further spread. It hasn't spread much though maybe because this is on the back side of my hand, where contacts are less.

Do you suggest, I take this concern to a dermatologist?
And what are the downsides of letting this stay as-is, not treating it?

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

See a dermatologist

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I will really suggest that you see a dermatologist. One reason is to get confirmed diagnosis. It does clear up on its own.

With dermatologist intervention, it can clear up faster and less chance of recurring and spreading.

Otherwise its no big deal, if you take your precautions during active lesions. It does not affect your general health.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Vaishalee Punj (1 minute later)

Alright. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Thanks

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Thanks for consulting me online.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Vaishalee Punj, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj