Molluscum Contagiosum: Information & Molluscum Contagiosum Specialists

The molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which is found worldwide, is usually transmitted through contact infection.

The virus can be transmitted through direct physical contact, particularly during sexual intercourse. For this reason, molluscum contagiosum is classified as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Molluscum contagiosum is very common among young adults, typically between the ages of 20 and 29.

However, indirect contact—such as through the shared use of towels or clothing—also plays a role.

Molluscum contagiosum around a child’s armpit

Due to their high contagiousness, molluscum contagiosum is found all over the world. It is particularly widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. It is estimated that approximately two to eight percent of the world’s population is infected with the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV).

People in poorer, densely populated areas are particularly affected by molluscum contagiosum. This is primarily due to limited access to hygiene facilities in these regions. Infection often occurs through contact transmission via the shared use of hygiene or household items.

Many children up to age 5 also suffer from molluscum contagiosum. They can easily become infected while playing with children who are already infected or by using the same toys. In addition, children’s still-weak immune systems make it easier for the pathogens to penetrate the skin.

The group of children is followed by young adults aged 15 to 29.

The causative agent of molluscum contagiosum is the molluscum contagiosum virus, which belongs to the poxvirus family.

It is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus. There are four forms of MC viruses, designated MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3, and MCV-4. The most common form is MCV-1. MCV-2 usually occurs only in adults.

The only host for the molluscum contagiosum virus is humans. It does not infect animals or other living organisms.

Even brief contact with infected skin is enough to transmit viral particles. This can happen, for example, when shaking hands or rubbing one’s hands together. Infection with MCV is also possible through sexual contact.

The virus then enters the body throughsmall breaks in the outermost layer of the skin. Once inside, the virus multiplies and causes the typical benign skin growths.

The molluscum contagiosum virus can also survive outside the body for a period of time. Therefore, infection is possible through shared items, such as toys or towels. Common sites of transmission are therefore

• swimming pools,
• daycare centers, and
• schools.

Theoretically, anyone can become infected with the molluscum contagiosum virus at any time. There is no vaccine against MCV. Furthermore, an MCV infection does not confer permanent immunity. This means that even if you’ve been infected once, you can become infected again.

Each time, this is a genuine new infection: The immune system completely clears the MCV from the body as soon as it recognizes and fights the virus.

Inside the molluscum contagiosum lesion—a soft, paste-like mass—the viruses are present in high concentrations. Scratching the lesion releases the viruses, allowing them to spread to other areas of the skin and body, where new lesions can form.

Therefore, never scratch a molluscum contagiosum lesion or cut it off!

The risk of actually developing molluscum contagiosum after coming into contact with the MCV depends

• on your general state of health and
• the skin condition

of the individual. People with a weakened immune system are at significantly greater risk than healthy people. People

• with HIV,
• those with cancer,
• or who are older or younger.

Skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis also increase the risk of molluscum contagiosum. Skin conditions make it easier for the viruses to breach the skin’s natural protective barrier.

Molluscum contagiosum lesions are circular, pearl-like nodules with a shiny surface. These lesions are whitish-yellowish, light red, or skin-colored.

Molluscum contagiosum is indented in the center. This characteristic indentation in the center is where the condition gets its name. Molluscum contagiosum is usually the size of a pinhead to a pea (one to five millimeters). However, in people with an immune disorder, they can also reach a diameter of up to three centimeters.

After infection with the MC virus, it takes two weeks to several months for the first molluscum contagiosum lesions to appear.

In adults, the virus is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse. For this reason, molluscum contagiosum frequently appears

• in the genital area,
• on the lower abdomen, and
• on the thighs

. However, molluscum can also affect any other part of the body, such as

• the torso,
• the arms,
• the legs,
• the armpits,
• the buttocks,
• the neck,
• the nape of the neck,
• the face, and
• the eyelids.

Molluscum contagiosum usually does not cause any symptoms. Only occasionally do those affected complain of severe itching.

Molluscum contagiosum can appear either individually or in clusters.

To make a diagnosis, the doctor—usually a dermatologist or venereologist—examines the affected areas of skin. Molluscum contagiosum can usually be identified at a glance due to its characteristic appearance.

Especially in the early stages, molluscum contagiosum can be mistaken for other skin conditions. For example,

• genital warts or
• plantar warts.

A histological examination may therefore be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

To do this, the doctor takes a tissue sample via biopsy under local anesthesia. The doctor then examines this sample under a microscope. This allows the doctor to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other types of warts or even malignant changes in the skin.

Molluscum contagiosum often resolves on its own after six to nine months. However, this is only possible if the warts occur sporadically and the affected person has a functioning immune system. Treatment for molluscum contagiosum is therefore not absolutely necessary.

To prevent them from spreading, however, they should be covered with bandages and under no circumstances should they be scratched off.

If the molluscum contagiosum does not clear up on its own after a few months, various treatment options are available:

• surgical removal,
• cryotherapy, and
• topical treatment with solutions or creams.

During surgical removal, the molluscum contagiosum lesions are scraped off using a wart spoon (curettage) or special tweezers. A wart spoon is a sharp surgical instrument. The patient receives a local anesthetic for the procedure. After removal, the affected skin area is thoroughly disinfected.

Cryotherapy involves freezing the molluscum contagiosum with liquid nitrogen. The wart falls off on its own a few days later.

Topical treatment with solutions or creams involves cauterizing the wart. The agent is applied directly to the wart, where it peels away one layer of skin at a time.

As an alternative to these treatment methods,

• laser removal of the molluscum contagiosum or
• antiviral medication

be considered.

The prognosis for molluscum contagiosum is generally very good. In healthy individuals with a functioning immune system, molluscum contagiosum usually clears up on its own within six to nine months.

In some cases, however, molluscum contagiosum can persist for several years if left untreated. This is particularly true for people with

• a weakened immune system,
• very dry skin, or
• skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis

. In these cases, there is a possibility that the warts may even spread further. You should therefore definitely seek treatment.

However, molluscum contagiosum can recur at any time, both after spontaneous healing and after successful treatment.

It is not possible to completely protect yourself from infection. However, following simple rules and precautions significantly reduces the risk of infection.

Avoid direct skin contact with other people’s warts.

Do not squeeze or scratch molluscum contagiosum warts. This increases the risk of infection and spread. 

Do not use items that infected people use, such as personal hygiene items like

• towels,
• bathrobes,
• washcloths,
• lotions, or
• soap.

Use condoms during sexual intercourse to prevent infection with molluscum contagiosum in the genital area.

People with atopic dermatitis should take special precautions. They are at increased risk of developing molluscum contagiosum. Care for your skin with special creams and lotions.