Molluscum contagiosum is an infectious disease caused by a virus belonging to the smallpox group. Two types of this virus are currently known: MCV-1 (much more common in patients) and MCV-2 (very sporadic). This virus very often attacks patients with atopic dermatitis and those who are immunocompromised (e.g. taking various immunosuppressive drugs, antibiotics) or fighting cancer.
We can become infected with it really anywhere, although it is commonly found in swimming pools, sports halls, gyms and massage parlours. It can be contracted through direct contact with an infected person or through contact with toys, towels, shoes or clothes. It is a harmless, although annoying, disease that is most common in children under five years of age, although it can also occur in adults. For adult patients, there is the possibility of sexual transmission (this applies to those with more than one sexual partner).
Symptoms and course molluscum contagious
Molluscum contagiosum is a very troublesome disease that requires specialised treatment. Despite the fact that it is a particularly contagious disease, the first symptoms appear up to a month after infection (however, this is usually within two weeks). The symptoms of molluscum contagiosum are visible on the skin in the form of papules. These have a hard texture, grey, pearly, whitish or flesh-coloured, and are up to 5mm in size. There are also lesions that are called large and are up to 1.5cm in size. They cannot be removed by washing or squeezing and are characterised by the fact that they have a small depression in the centre of the nodule.
They can occur singly or form large clusters. In some patients, a red border (inflammation) develops around the nodule. However, inside the nodule there is a serous content. Nodules are most commonly located on the eyelid, face, limbs and chest. Occasionally they are found on the hands or feet. If sexually transmitted, lesions appear on the pubic crest and labia majora in women and on the skin of the penis in men.
When to go to the doctor and treat molluscum contagious
If you notice the above-described lesions on your skin, you should see a specialist as soon as possible. Molluscum contagiosum is a disease that requires specialised treatment.
