Molluscum Contagiosum (cont.)
Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD
Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.
Nili N. Alai, MD, FAAD
Dr. Alai is an actively practicing medical and surgical dermatologist in south Orange County, California. She has been a professor of dermatology and family medicine at the University of California, Irvine since 2000. She is U.S. board-certified in dermatology, a 10-year-certified fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, and Fellow of the American Society of Mohs Surgery.
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.
In this Article
- Molluscum contagiosum facts
- What is molluscum contagiosum? What causes molluscum contagiosum?
- Who develops molluscum contagiosum?
- What are molluscum contagiosum symptoms and signs?
- How is molluscum contagiosum diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for molluscum contagiosum?
- How do I treat the accompanying rash with molluscum contagiosum?
- How do I treat the persistent skin discoloration after molluscum contagiosum?
- Why do I keep getting more molluscum bumps where I shave?
- What are possible complications of molluscum contagiosum?
- What is the prognosis with molluscum contagiosum?
- How do I prevent molluscum contagiosum?
- Find a local Dermatologist in your town
How do I treat the accompanying rash with molluscum contagiosum?
Treatment of molluscum-associated eczema is directed toward the underlying dry skin. General measures to prevent excessive skin dryness and breakdown (such as mild soapless cleansers) are recommended. Lubrication with moisturizer lotions (such as Cetaphil or Lubriderm) is helpful for many people. Eczema that is more resistant may require the addition of an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (such as Cortaid or a prescription medium potency topical steroid cream such as triamcinolone once or twice a day) for inflamed or itchy areas. Topical steroids should not be applied directly to the molluscum bumps as they may worsen molluscum contagiosum.
Learn more about: hydrocortisone | Cortaid
How do I treat the persistent skin discoloration after molluscum contagiosum?
After the molluscum bumps have resolved, persistent skin discoloration called hyperpigmentation may be left alone and allowed to resolve over time. Alternatively, residual hyperpigmentation may be treated with prescription fading creams (such as hydroquinone 4%, kojic acid, or azelaic acid 15%-20%). Over-the-counter fading creams with 2% hydroquinone are available (such as Porcelana). Mild chemical peels and microdermabrasion may also help improve discoloration.
Why do I keep getting more molluscum bumps where I shave?
The repeat tiny cuts caused by shaving with a razor can create more potential breeding areas for the poxvirus. This may lead to further spreading of molluscum contagiosum. Treatment goals include avoiding shaving the affected molluscum area and trial of other hair-removal methods like laser hair removal, electric razors, or cream depilatories (such as Neet or Nair).
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