With the new school year in full swing, children are back to sharing classrooms, playgrounds, and consequently germs. One skin condition that parents should be aware of is molluscum contagiosum, a common viral infection that can easily spread among kids, especially in close-contact environments. Here’s what you need to know about molluscum contagiosum, including symptoms, treatment options, and how to prevent its spread.
What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus known as the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It presents as small, firm, flesh-colored or pink bumps (papules) on the skin that may have a dimple in the center. While the condition is not dangerous or deadly, it is highly contagious. Although molluscum contagiosum is generally harmless, it can be a nuisance and spread rapidly, so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and prevention methods.
Who Gets Molluscum Contagiosum?
While anyone can get molluscum contagiosum, it is most commonly seen in children between the ages of 1 and 10. This is because young children are more likely to have direct skin-to-skin contact during play, and their immune systems are still developing. Adults and teens can also be affected, particularly if they have weakened immune systems or are in contact sports like wrestling.
Why Do Children Get Molluscum Contagiosum?
Children are more prone to molluscum contagiosum due to their close interactions with others and their frequent sharing of personal items like towels, clothing, and toys. Molluscum spreads through direct skin contact or by touching contaminated objects. Children with eczema or other skin conditions may be more susceptible because the virus can more easily enter broken or irritated skin.
Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
The primary symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the appearance of small, round, smooth bumps. The bumps associated with molluscum contagiosum can develop anywhere on the skin Each bump typically:
- Is flesh-colored, pink, or white
- Has a dimple or indentation in the center
- Measures about 2 to 5 mm in diameter
- May become red or inflamed if scratched or irritated
In most cases, molluscum doesn’t cause pain, but the bumps can become itchy, which can lead to scratching and further spread of the virus.
How is Molluscum Contagiosum Diagnosed?
A diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is typically made through a physical examination by a healthcare provider. The distinctive appearance of the bumps, especially the central dimple, usually makes the condition easy to identify. In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, but this is uncommon.
Treatment Options
In many cases, molluscum contagiosum resolves on its own without treatment within 6 to 12 months. However, because the virus can spread, especially in school-aged children, treatment may be recommended to prevent transmission to others. It’s important to note that molluscum lesions often require more than one treatment session, as the virus can be persistent, and new bumps may continue to appear even after treatment begins. Options include:
- Topical therapies: Creams or solutions that are applied to the bumps to help destroy the virus, such as those containing cantharidin (“beetle juice” or imiquimod.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the bumps with liquid nitrogen.
- Curettage/shave removal: Physically removing the bumps.
Your dermatologist can discuss the best treatment option depending on the child’s age, skin type, and number of lesions.
Preventing the Spread of Molluscum Contagiosum
Since molluscum contagiosum is contagious, it’s important to take steps to prevent its spread, especially in schools and other group settings. Here are some tips for parents and children:
- Encourage children to avoid touching or scratching the bumps.
- Keep affected areas covered with clothing or bandages.
- Teach children not to share personal items like towels, clothing, or sports equipment.
- Ensure children wash their hands frequently, especially after touching affected areas.
- If your child has molluscum, inform the school to prevent transmission during activities like gym class or swimming.
Conclusion
Recognizing the symptoms of molluscum is important to ensure proper management of the condition and prevent its spread. If your child develops suspicious bumps, contact a dermatologist for diagnosis and discuss treatment options to keep your child comfortable and reduce the chance of passing it on to others during the school year.
