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MC Treatments AdviceUnder normal circumstances, Molluscum Contagiosum will go away on its own without treatment, provided that the patient avoids scratching the infected areas. Patients should be patient and take care to clean hands, clothing, and towels carefully after contact with the molluscum. Scratching the affected areas can cause further infection, so a topical antiseptic may be used in cases such as this. This may help to relieve pain and irritation on and around the inflamed areas. In some cases, patients do not want to wait for Molluscum Contagiosum to clear up on its own. In these cases, there are a variety of treatment options available. A physician can test the lesions to confirm the diagnosis of Molluscum Contagiosum and then recommend the appropriate treatment for the individual. One option for faster removal is to have the lesions frozen off. This is known as crytotherapy. Substances such as dry ice, liquid nitrogen, or Frigiderm are applied directly to the lesion for a few seconds. It is important to note, however, that this can cause scarring. Another easy method of removal is evisceration. This involves removing the waxy core from the lesion. A sharp object such as a sterile needle or scalpel is used to scrap the top layer of skin from the lesion and to remove the core. This is a simple procedure that adults can perform at home. Tape stripping is another method for treating Molluscum Contagiosum. In this method, tape is applied, adhesive side down, to the lesion and then removed quickly. This must be done 10 to 20 times before the lesion is removed completely. However, precautions must be taken with this treatment form because use of the same strip of tape can potentially spread the virus to surrounding, unifected areas. In some cases, physicians may recommend pulsed dye laser removal. This form of treatment does not cause scarring and clears up all lesions within approximately two weeks. However, while this treatment is effective, it is also costly. Finally, there are a variety of creams and ointments that can also be prescribed to treat Molluscum Contagiosum. A physician should be consulted, and testing should be done to confirm the diagnosis before treatment is begun. |
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| STD Information | Herpes | Genital Warts | HPV | Syphilis | Chlamydia | Gonorrhea | Molluscum Contagiosum | Vaginitis | Birth Control | |||