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It is a common childhood viral skin condition that produces many dome-shaped bumps on the skin occurring singly or grouped in a patch. They may affect only one area of the body, or they may be scattered all over. There may be only five or six bumps, or more than fifty. They vary in size from pinhead to one quarter inch across, are firm with a tiny dimple in the center. They rarely itch, but never hurt.
It is caused by a poxvirus, transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, or by sharing towels or clothing. It can be spread to other parts of the body by picking at a bump. Those children with vulnerable skin, such as eczema patients, are more likely to catch this through the fine cracks in their skin. After infection, a child is immune for life.
Most cases resolve with no treatment in as few as 6 months but can also last up to three years. If the bumps are scratched open and become infected, they may leave a scar, like chicken pox; but if left alone, they will disappear without a trace. These bumps are completely benign, painless, and disappear without any treatment, so most children are not treated. Those children with several dozen bumps; or bumps in areas that are a cosmetic problem; or bumps in places that rub on clothing; may prompt a trial of treatment.
There are a variety of methods to treat molluscum bumps. They can be scraped off with a scalpel or cored with a special instrument - both procedures are painful. The bumps may be frozen with liquid nitrogen; removed by laser or acid application; taped with duct tape; or retin A cream may be applied. The newest modality, Aldara cream, is a technique that works with the immune system to heal the bump. Each of these methods has drawbacks such as pain or infection. If you think your child should be treated, discuss the pro’s and con’s of therapy with the doctor. It’s fine to attend school with this condition.
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