03/26/2026
What are those tiny bumps? Let’s talk Molluscum Contagiosum.
These are small bumps, 1–5 mm in size, caused by a virus in the poxvirus family. While they occur mostly in children aged 1–10 years, people of any age can get them!
They can show up anywhere on the body and are firm and flesh, white, or pink in color. Molluscum bumps may come alone or in groups and have a signature umbilicated (dimpled) appearance.
Is it contagious? As the name suggests, it is! It spreads by:
🤝 Person-to-person contact
🧸 Objects such as toys and towels
🚫 Note: The virus lives in the skin, so it does not spread through saliva or sneezing.
Children with atopic dermatitis (eczema) or suppressed immune systems are at an increased risk for more severe cases. Because lesions persist for so long, the best way to prevent spread is good hand washing and keeping lesions on the hands covered.
Treatment is typically "watchful waiting." Lesions will go away on their own—usually within 6–12 months—but they can persist for up to four years! 🕰️
For more severe cases, doctors can treat them with:
🔹 Cryotherapy
🔹 Laser therapy
🔹 Curettage
🔹 Topicals (Cantharidin, salicylic acid, tretinoin, or imiquimod)
The Goal: These treatments irritate the skin to “alert” the body to the virus so it starts attacking it. While any poxvirus can scar with or without treatment, luckily, these typically do not!
Have questions or need to schedule an appointment?
https://pediatricassociatesofdayton.com
These resources are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please do not share medical information on this platform.
