Molluscum contagiosum - meaning and definition
Alsomolluscumwater wartsmolluscum contagiosum virusMCV
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
Molluscum contagiosum is a harmless viral skin infection that causes small, smooth, raised spots; in adults it can be passed on through sexual contact.
At a glance
- Molluscum contagiosum is a harmless viral skin infection.
- It causes small, smooth, raised, usually painless spots.
- In children it spreads through ordinary play and shared towels.
- In adults, spots in the genital area are usually passed on during sex.
- Spots typically clear by themselves within months, so treatment is optional.
In detail
In children, molluscum spreads through ordinary play and shared towels. In adults, spots in the genital area are usually passed on through skin-to-skin contact during sex.
The spots are typically painless and clear by themselves within months, though sometimes it takes longer. Treatment is optional and can include freezing or creams. People with weakened immune systems may have more extensive outbreaks.
In a sentence
- The GP said the spots were molluscum contagiosum and would probably clear on their own.
- Molluscum is very common in children and usually harmless.
Where the word comes from
The name comes from Latin, "molluscum" meaning something soft, and "contagiosum" meaning contagious.
Not to be confused with
- Genital warts
Genital warts are caused by HPV and usually look rougher and less dome-shaped.
Common questions
Does molluscum contagiosum go away on its own?
Usually, yes. The spots typically clear by themselves within months, though sometimes it takes longer. Treatment, such as freezing or creams, is optional.
Is molluscum contagiosum an STI?
In adults, genital spots are usually passed on through skin-to-skin contact during sex, but in children it spreads through ordinary contact. A sexual health clinic or doctor can advise on your own situation.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSMolluscum contagiosum
- Planned ParenthoodMolluscum contagiosum