Molluscum contagiosum is a benign, poxvirus infection that typically has a central depression. This image displays lesions from a skin infection with a poxvirus, molluscum contagiosum. As displayed in this image, molluscum appear smooth and can be either skin-colored or, if inflamed, pink. This image displays molluscum lesions with a depression in the center. Some of the numerous molluscum lesions on this child’s trunk and arm are the skin-colored bumps with a slight depression that are typical of molluscum, while others are red and scabbed. Molluscum lesions may be numerous and pearl-like in appearance; some spots on the child's chin show the characteristic indentation in the center.
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Molluscum Contagiosum (Pediatric)  A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Picture of Molluscum Contagiosum (Pediatric): Molluscum contagiosum is a benign, poxvirus infection that typically has a central depression. Divider line
Molluscum contagiosum is a benign, poxvirus infection that typically has a central depression.
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Treatments Your Provider May Prescribe
Your doctor will most likely be able to diagnose molluscum contagiosum by its appearance. Very rarely, a biopsy is required.

Again, this viral infection will resolve on its own within a few months. Talk to your child's doctor about whether he or she recommends treatment or watchful waiting. No treatment is 100% effective, and most can have side effects such as pain or irritation of the skin.

Possible treatments include the following:
  • Cantharidin 0.7% or 0.9% liquid – This is an extract from the blister beetle. It is applied to the lesions and then washed off in 2–6 hours. It is not for use on the face or genitals.
  • Removal with freezing (cryosurgery), scraping (curettage), or burning (electrocautery) – All of these options may be painful.
  • Salicylic acid
  • Podofilox (Condylox®)
  • Tretinoin (Retin-A®)
  • Trichloroacetic acid
  • Silver nitrate paste
  • Imiquimod cream (Aldara®) – This may be useful for widespread, difficult-to-treat lesions.
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Last Modified: 17 Apr 2009
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