Molluscum Contagiosum

Children come down with the strangest symptoms sometimes, and Molluscum Contagiosum is definitely one of them. Often popping up overnight, molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes small, flesh-colored bumps on the skin. While this is a benign skin infection, it is highly contagious through contact. Most people have never heard of molluscum contagiosum, and parents are often surprised to learn that this skin condition can last anywhere from a couple of months to four years. Proper understanding of this skin infection can help alleviate its symptoms as it runs its course.

At Medical Dermatology Specialists, we have seen many children and their worried parents in our office at the outbreak of this virus. The sudden onset of any skin condition is worrisome, but because molluscum contagiosum is a virus, most parents and doctors choose to let it run its course. The bumps will eventually go away on their own, but older children are sometimes upset by this skin condition. Some parents want to treat molluscum contagiosum, but it is vital to understand that treatment can be painful and can lead to scarring of the skin. Most cases of molluscum contagiosum are left alone, and parents are given tips to help manage the annoyance of the condition.

As with many skin conditions, molluscum contagiosum can be very itchy. It is important that your child not scratch the bumps on his or her skin. When the bumps break open, the virus can quickly spread and infect other areas of the body. It is also vital that children do not share towels or clothes. Drying off after a shower or bath can cause some of the bumps to break open, leaving the virus to linger on a towel or clothing and quickly spread to siblings.While frustrating, molluscum contagiosum is typically a condition that simply must be managed. This viral skin condition rarely requires medical intervention. At Medical Dermatology Specialists, we understand that molluscum contagiosum can cause an unwanted interruption. Our practice is committed to providing a gentle and wholistic approach to skincare. Contact us today with any of your child’s skin concerns.

Medical Dermatology Specialists,
5730 Glenridge Dr, Suite T-100
Atlanta, GA 30328
(404) 939-9220

Monday – Thursday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM