Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that is often mistaken for warts because causes papules.
Warts are caused by human pappilloma virus while the pox virus causes molluscum contagiosum.
Adults usually have immunity against the pox virus due to constant exposure and that is molluscum contagiosum is seen more often in children.
In this viral skin infection, you get flesh colored and dome shaped papules, which are approximately 2 mm to 5 mm in size.
The rash occurs mostly on the face, torso, armpits and extremities in children, while adults get it in the pubic and genital regions.
The papules are normally in a group and several groups can occur all over the body.
Unlike warts, molluscum contagiosum does not develop on the soles and palms.
The virus causing molluscum contagiosum is spread by direct contact with the papules and that is how it spreads from one area of the body to another.
You can also get the virus by touching infected objects and things like a brush or clothes.
Usually the rash disappears on its own; but each group of papules lasts for around 6 to 9 months.
It is not unheard of the lesions lasting for many years.
Treatment varies from person to person.
While some treatments are painful, others are not.
Here are some treatment options that are used for treating molluscum contagiosum: oThe lesions can be scraped off with or without the use of anesthesia oLiquid nitrogen can be used to freeze the lesions oSometimes a blistering agent is applied on the lesion oA solution of salicylic acid is applied oLaser is the preferred treatment option if the lesions occur in the genital area oPrescription acne cream is applied for weeks or months on the lesion