Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin disease that is caused by a virus. It is characterized by small, waxy, dome-shaped lesions on the skin. It is benign and painless, and usually goes away spontaneously after a few months to a few years. It is most common in children under the age of 5 years. It is becoming more common in patients of all ages with an impaired immune system (e.g., patients with HIV or AIDS).

Molluscum contagiosum may spread in location due to touching or scratching the lesions. It may also spread to other people by direct skin contact or other methods (e.g., sharing a towel, swimming pools, public bathing facilities, gymnasiums, tattoo needles). In adults, it is most often transmitted sexually.

The lesions in molluscum contagiosum are generally small, raised, flesh-colored nodules with a waxy or pearl-like surface. They usually contain a cheesy or waxy matter. There may be just a few lesions or very many, and they may occur anywhere except on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Rarely, the lesions may be tender, itchy or inflamed.

The diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is usually based on the appearance of the lesions in a physical examination. Because the lesions tend to resolve spontaneously without scarring, treatment may not be necessary. However, treatment may be performed for cosmetic reasons or, when lesions occur in the genital area, to prevent spread by sexual contact. The goal of treatment is the destruction of the lesions. This may be achieved by a number of minor surgical methods (e.g., scraping, freezing). In children, topical medications such as blistering solutions may be used.

The prevention of molluscum contagiosum relies upon good hygiene, the avoidance of direct contact with lesions and safe sex behaviors.