Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin. It may occur anywhere on the body. It is contagious. In children, it is found most commonly on the face or on the inner thighs. In adults, it more likely occurs on the abdomen and genitals.
Causes of Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a DNA virus of the pox group. It may be transmitted sexually and the incubation period is 2 weeks to 6 months.
Signs and Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
Mossulscum contagiosum produces small, raised bumps on the skin, or papules. they are smooth, firm and domed shaped. They have a central pit in the dome. They are skin colored or white. The skin overlying these bumps is very thin or transparent. They range in size from 2 mm to as large as 10 mm in diameter. They are painless and do not itch. However, when they occur on the eyelids, they may cause irritation.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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