Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral skin infection. The most common symptom of MC is small, firm, raised spots on the skin, which usually form in little clusters.
MC is usually painless, although some people may feel mild to moderate itchiness. The condition is not a serious threat to health, but it can be annoying and, in severe cases, it can look ugly.
In most cases, MC will go away within 18 months without the need for treatment.
The condition is highly infectious. However, most people are resistant to the molluscum contagiosum virus, meaning they are unlikely to develop MC if they come into contact with the virus.
At-risk groups
There are three main groups of people who tend to be affected by MC. They are:
- young children aged one to five years
- people who have had a number of different sexual partners
- people with a weakened immune system – either due to a condition such as HIV, or due to complications from treatments such as chemotherapy for cancer
How molluscum contagiosum is spread
MC can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, or indirectly through contact with objects that have been contaminated by an infected person, such as towels or clothing.
Children often catch it after close physical contact (such as play fighting or hugging) with another infected child.
Adults may catch it after sexual activity.
See Molluscum contagiosum - causes for more information about how the MC virus is spread.
How common is molluscum contagiosum?
It is difficult to know exactly how common MC is in children because the condition is not classed as a notifiable disease. This means that GPs do not have to report cases to the authorities, unlike more serious types of childhood infections, such as measles.
Many adults with MC are also thought to be reluctant to report their symptoms to their GP or local sexual health clinic due to embarrassment because of its association with sexual activity.
Figures from Switzerland and the US suggest that MC is responsible for 1 in every 100 diagnosed skin disorders. It is likely that figures are similar in England.
Outlook
The outlook for children with MC is very good, because the condition is usually mild and gets better by itself without the need for treatment.
The same is true for healthy adults, although some people may decide to have treatment for cosmetic reasons. This is often the case for adults who have a weakened immune system, because they usually develop a more extensive form of the infection.
Treatment for MC usually involves destroying the lesions, which can be done in a number of different ways. See Molluscum contagiosum - treatment for more information.
