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MC Symptoms AdviceMolluscum Contagiosum is a benign viral infection of the skin. The virus commonly appears in children on any part of the body except the palms and soles of the feet. This form of the virus is not spread sexually. In adults, it is found on or around the genitals and is considered a sexually transmitted disease. This includes, but is not limited to the genitals, thighs, and lower abdomen. Molluscum Contagiosum is an infection resulting from a virus called the poxvirus. It is spread primarily by direct contact such as sexual contact but can be spread through indirect contact such as sharing towels and washcloths. In addition, it can be spread through the waters in a swimming pool. Infected persons should take appropriate precautions to prevent spread as much as possible. The infection produces pink, pearl-like lesions on the genitals. Spots will generally have an umbilication (“dimple”) in the center. Some lesions will become softer and a grayish-color after maturing. Spots are typically anywhere between 1 and 6 mm in size but can become larger, especially in persons who also have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Most infected persons have less than twenty lesions, although some people may have as many as several hundred. While these lesions are typically painless, they may become irritated in cases where the infected person has scratched. In rare cases, spots can be found with an abnormal shape, size, or color. Molluscum Contagiosum shows up on the skin in two to eight weeks after contact with the virus. It can go away within a few months or may last as long as two years. In persons also infected with HIV, this may be a persistent, recurring condition. The condition may actually worsen over time, rather than getting better. No scarring should be seen on the individual once the virus is gone. Because this virus produces lesions in the genital area, it is often mistaken for genital herpes or warts. However, a skin biopsy can confirm a diagnosis. A physician should examine and test the lesion to rule out any other possibilities before treating the patient for Molluscum Contagiosum. |
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| STD Information | Herpes | Genital Warts | HPV | Syphilis | Chlamydia | Gonorrhea | Molluscum Contagiosum | Vaginitis | Birth Control | |||