Molluscum contagiosum often clears without treatment, but options exist when lesions itch, spread, or cause concern. Basic care and avoiding scratching limit spread. In-office procedures (curettage, cryotherapy, cantharidin) remove lesions quickly but carry scarring and pain risks. Topicals and lasers are alternatives for multiple or persistent lesions. Discuss options with a clinician, especially for eyelid lesions, infected bumps, or immunocompromised patients.

What molluscum is and why it matters

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus. It produces small, round, firm bumps with a central dimple. Lesions can itch, bleed if scratched, become secondarily infected, and sometimes leave scars. They can also spread to other skin sites and to other people, so simple precautions matter.

Three practical approaches to treatment

There are three broad approaches people and clinicians use, depending on age, number and location of lesions, symptoms, and patient preference.

1) Watchful waiting and basic care

Many cases resolve without active medical treatment over months to years. Avoid scratching, cover lesions during close contact (for example, during sports or sexual activity), and maintain good skin hygiene to lower spread. Clean minor secondary infections and seek care if you see increased pain, spreading redness, or pus.

2) In-office physical treatments

When lesions bother a person, clinicians often remove them in clinic. Common methods include curettage (gentle scraping), cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen freezing), or application of blistering agents such as cantharidin. These procedures remove lesions quickly but can be uncomfortable and carry a small risk of scarring or pigment change. Pediatric treatment often favors less painful options when possible.

3) Topical medications and laser

Topical therapies (prescription keratolytics or other prescription creams) can be offered for multiple lesions or for patients who prefer to avoid in-office procedures. Some topical options require repeated application and can cause local irritation. Pulsed-dye laser and other laser types are sometimes used for resistant or widespread lesions; lasers can work well but are usually more costly and may not be widely available.

Choosing the right option

Decision factors include lesion number, location (face and genitals deserve careful consideration), patient age, pain tolerance, scarring risk, and cost. For many children and adults with few, asymptomatic lesions, watchful waiting with measures to prevent spread is reasonable. For bothersome or persistent lesions, discuss in-office removal or topical options with a dermatologist or primary care clinician.

When to see a clinician

Seek care if lesions are painful, rapidly increasing, bleeding excessively, show signs of bacterial infection, are on the eyelids or near the eyes, or if you are immunocompromised. A clinician can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the safest, most effective option for your situation.

Note: recommendations and available products have evolved over time. For specific guidance about prescription treatments, check current dermatology guidelines or consult a clinician.

  1. Confirm current guideline recommendations on use of imiquimod and other specific topical agents for molluscum contagiosum.
  2. Confirm typical timeframes for spontaneous resolution in children and adults as reported in recent dermatology guidance.

FAQs about Molluscum Treatment

Will molluscum go away on its own?
Yes. Many cases resolve without treatment over months to years. Watchful waiting is a reasonable option for asymptomatic lesions, while taking steps to avoid spread.
Is cryotherapy painful and does it scar?
Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) can be painful and may cause blistering or pigment changes. Scarring is possible but uncommon when performed correctly.
What is cantharidin and how is it used?
Cantharidin is a blistering agent applied in clinic to lift and remove lesions. It's commonly used in pediatric dermatology because it avoids a painful scraping procedure, but it causes local blistering and must be handled by a clinician.
Should I try topical creams at home?
Some prescription topical agents are options for multiple lesions, but they can irritate the skin and often require weeks of use. Discuss risks and benefits with your clinician before starting treatment.
When should I see a doctor about molluscum?
See a clinician for painful, rapidly spreading, infected lesions, bumps near the eyes, or if you are immunocompromised. A clinician can confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment.

News about Molluscum Treatment

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