Back
healthwords.aihealthwords.ai
Cart
Search
condition icon
condition

Molluscum

Dr Roger Henderson
Reviewed by Roger HendersonReviewed on 29.04.2024 | 2 minutes read
EmailFacebookPinterestTwitter

Molluscum contagiosum are small protruding smooth shiny bumps, often flesh-coloured or pink/red, and distinguished by the dip in the centre of their tip.

If squeezed (and we advise not), a semi-solid substance may ooze out. This is not recommended as this liquid contains the molluscum virus that causes the bumps, and as these are highly contagious, squeezing risks spreading to other parts of the body or gifting to friends and loved ones.

Molluscum is common and usually seen in children. It causes no harm, but parents or sufferers may be bothered by the appearance, and occasionally, a molluscum may become itchy and irritated, or even infected with bacteria.

Summary content image 1

Is it contagious?

Molluscum is contagious, as the full name implies, so you (or your infected child) should be careful not sharing towels, clothes or bed linen. The jury is out on whether you can visit swimming pools, but if you do want to go to the pool, it’s advised that all visible lesions are covered with watertight bandages and these are disposed of afterwards.

Healthwords pharmacists' top tips

Molluscum will eventually go on their own, but if they are bothersome then they can be treated with a product containing potassium hydroxide 5% (also called MolluDab. MolluDab comes with an applicator that's precise, easy to use and protects healthy skin. The bumps can be cleared in as little as 5 weeks. It is suitable for adults and children over two years old, and is applied twice a day with an applicator.

Other treatments for particularly itchy or bothersome bumps include using an antihistamine such as ‘Piriton’or another antihistamine that should relieve itching and irritation. Try to avoid scratching the bumps as this can lead to weepy wounds that could spread the infection further, or lead to infection.

In addition, a good skin cleaning solution such as 'Hibiscrub' solution or 'Osctenisan' wash lotion may also help to prevent infection and keep secondary bacterial infections at bay.

Am I fit for work?

You are fit for work if you have molluscum (and your child is fit for school).

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if one particular molluscum becomes sore and red, as this may have become infected by bacteria.

Otherwise, you could leave these spots alone and they will clear up within a few months, or you can purchase a product from a pharmacy to speed up clearance.

Was this helpful?

Dr Roger Henderson
Reviewed by Roger Henderson
Reviewed on 29.04.2024
EmailFacebookPinterestTwitter