Infections - Bacterial & Viral
Molluscum Contagiosum
WHAT IS IT
A harmless viral skin infection
HOW COMMON
Very common, especially in children
CONTAGIOUS?
Yes — by skin contact and shared items
CURABLE?
Yes — often clears on its own over time
What Is It?
Molluscum contagiosum is a common, harmless viral skin infection that causes small, dome-shaped bumps with a tiny dimple in the center. It's most common in children but can affect anyone. Bumps can spread on the body or to others, but they eventually clear on their own, often within 6–12 months.
Signs & Symptoms
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Small, firm, dome-shaped bumps
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A tiny dimple or pit in the center
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Skin-colored, pink, or pearly
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Often in clusters; may itch mildly
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Common in warm, moist areas and skin folds
Why Does It Happen?
It's caused by a poxvirus that spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, shared towels or toys, and scratching (which moves the virus to new spots). It's more common in children, in people with eczema, and with skin-to-skin contact. It is harmless and NOT a sign of poor hygiene.
Treatment Options
Because it clears on its own, treatment is optional and often chosen to limit spread or discomfort. Options range from watchful waiting to in-office or at-home treatments.
WATCHFUL WAITING
Reasonable for many, since bumps resolve on their own over months.
IN-OFFICE CANTHARIDIN
A blistering solution applied by a clinician to clear bumps.
AT-HOME PRESCRIPTION GEL
Berdazimer gel, a newer option applied at home to lesions.
OTHER PROCEDURES
Freezing or curettage for select bumps when appropriate.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Avoid scratching or picking, which spreads bumps to new areas
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Don't share towels, clothing, or baths while bumps are present
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Cover bumps during close-contact sports or activities
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Treat eczema, which makes spreading more likely
When to Call Your Provider
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Bumps become red, swollen, or painful (possible infection)
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Rapid spreading, or bumps near the eyes
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Bumps in the genital area of an adult (may need evaluation)
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Bumps persist well beyond a year or bother you cosmetically
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Molluscum Contagiosum: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/molluscum-contagiosum-overview
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Molluscum Contagiosum. https://www.cdc.gov/molluscum-contagiosum/about/index.html
DermNet. Molluscum Contagiosum. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/molluscum-contagiosum
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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