Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Molluscum
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that causes small, firm, pearly bumps with a tiny dip in the center. It is most common in children, but adults can get it too.
It spreads through skin contact and shared items like towels. It usually goes away on its own, but that can take many months to a couple of years, so many families choose treatment.
Signs and symptoms
- Small, smooth, skin-colored or pink bumps with a dimple in the middle
- Bumps in groups, often on the trunk, arms, legs or face
- Itching or redness around the bumps, sometimes a sign they are about to clear
How we treat it
- Cantharidin: a blistering medicine applied by a clinician. The FDA-approved formulation is for molluscum in patients age 2 and older; follow the specific aftercare and wash-off instructions.
- Cryotherapy: freezing the bumps
- Curettage: gently scraping bumps off
- Prescription creams
- Tips to prevent spread: not sharing towels and not scratching or picking
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Molluscum Q&A
Can my child go to school or swim?
Children with molluscum generally do not need to stay home from school. For swimming, cover bumps with watertight bandages and do not share towels or equipment. Avoid swimming with open sores and follow local facility rules.
Does treatment hurt?
Cantharidin usually causes little discomfort when applied, but the later blistering can be painful. Freezing and scraping can also hurt. Your provider will discuss an approach appropriate for your child.
Is it serious?
Molluscum is usually a mild infection, but bumps can become inflamed or infected. Extensive disease or lesions near the eye may need additional evaluation, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Who you can see
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens