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What Every Patient Needs to Know about Mollescum Contagiosum

Apr 25, 2018

Mollescum contagiosum is a common, viral skin condition that is generally harmless. Despite the fact that it doesn’t pose any long-term health risks, treating it is usually recommended by dermatologists to prevent it from spreading. Mollescum contagiosum is the subject of clinical trials in order to develop new treatment options. Here is what you need to know about the condition.

What exactly is mollescum contagiosum?

Mollescum contagiosum is a viral skin disease that is spread through skin-to-skin contact. It is common in people who share towels or clothes, gymnasts, wrestlers, swimmers, and other people who come into contact with items that have been in contact with people’s skin. It can also be transmitted sexually. People of any age can get mollescum contagiosum, but people with weakened immune systems are most susceptible to having long-term infections.

What are the symptoms?

Mollescum contagiosum causes bumps on the skin that may be pink or red in color. Some have a white core. They can appear on any part of the body that was exposure to the virus. In the early stage of the disease, the nodules are closed, but they burst as the disease progresses. As the bumps burst, they can develop sores that can become infected. People with the condition should avoid popping the bumps, which are not usually painful but can be itchy.

How it is treated?

In most people, mollescum contagiosum goes away on its own after six to 12 months, but most dermatologists recommend treating it so that it doesn’t spread to other parts of the body or get transmitted to other people. Cryotherapy, curettage, laser therapy, and topical treatments are effective in clearing the infection.

Arlington Dermatology is pleased to be involved in a clinical trial to offer better treatments for patients with mollescum contagiosum. If you’re interested in taking part in our clinical trials, contact our dermatology office in Arlington Heights to see if we have a program that is right for you. Dial [company-phone id=1] to learn more about clinical trials or to make an appointment with a dermatologist.

Mollescum Contagiosum