Molluscum contagiosum
Molluscum is a viral infection that causes flesh colored wart-like bumps on the skin. It is super frustrating, but also quite common.
PC: Canva
Here are the details you should know as a parent!
How do I know if my child has it?
PC: Canva
Pink or flesh colored domes, about 2-5mm in diameter, with a central dimple (called an “umbilication”). It can occur in clusters anywhere on the body and can last for several months.
Most kids are not bothered by the rash although it can be slightly itchy. It is often also worse in children with underlying skin conditions such as eczema.
This viral rash is most common in elementary-school aged children, and sometimes children will get clusters of 5-10 at a time.
Transmission
This is a contagious rash, spread by direct skin-to-skin contact. It can also spread via surfaces such as towels, in bathtubs, or on toys and surfaces.
We often see children spreading it on their own bodies, too, because of the tendency to scratch or pick at a lesion.
Incubation period is usually about 2-6 weeks
Timeline and treatment
The rash can last up to 2-12 months, and then it goes away. Interestingly, if the bumps become red/swollen/irritated, this is usually a precursor to them going away.
Because Molluscum is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help and many of the interventions (as with wart treatments) can be uncomfortable. They also aren’t guaranteed to work.
There isn’t a lot of data on successful treatment options. Some pediatricians will treat with Cantharidin, which is a topical treatment made from beetle secretions. When applied, it will cause a blister to form at the site of the lesion, which then lifts the lesion off the skin. Other physical treatment options include liquid nitrogen or cryotherapy (similar to a wart), but these can cause pain and scarring.
There are some reports of other interventions, including oral or topical medication (Cimetidine, Tretinoin, salicylic acid) but the data is mixed.
So what should you do?
This is often an individualized decision. For many children, as long as the rash isn’t bothering them or in sensitive areas (face, genitalia) we usually leave them alone.
For immune-compromised children, there is an argument to be made to try to treat.
When to call the pediatrician
This is not a comprehensive list. In general, always err on the side of calling your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your child. There is a lot to be said for a parent’s gut instinct, and I promise: your pediatrician would rather you called!
If your child seems very uncomfortable, call your pediatrician. Other concerning symptoms include:
Rash that is getting worse or spreading widely
Lesions near eyes/on face or in genital area
Anything else tickling your spidey sense :)
FAQs
What about sports?
If lesions are in areas that may come into contact with others (such as during swimming), keep them covered. For contact sports, if the lesions are covered this should be sufficient.
How do I prevent spread?
Avoid sharing of intimate items, joint baths, etc. Consider covering up lesions if your child is prone to picking.
Do I need to keep my child home from school?
No.
I’ve heard about tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar. Should I try them?
The data really doesn’t support their being effective, but its fine to try.
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