Tags
Children Skin Dermatologist, Dr Lynn Chiam, Family Skin Clinic, Laser Clinic Singapore, Molluscum Contagiosum, Pediatric Skin Singapore, Singapore Dermatologist, Skin Laser Clinic, viral infections
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is another common skin infection seen in children. It is caused by the pox virus and involves the outer layers of the skin causing tiny white bumps. The center of the bumps may have a depression filled with a whitish material. Molluscum contagiosum is contagious and can transmit to other areas of the body or to other children. It can spread via skin to skin contact and sharing of clothes and towels. It is advisable to avoid swimming if your child has molluscum contagiosum. Infants and toddlers are more susceptible to getting molluscum. Usually it causes no harm.
Treatment
Treatment of molluscum includes pricking the white bumps, freezing it with liquid nitrogen, or applying a medicated cream (imiquimod). Left untreated, molluscum may last for 2-3 years. It clears when immunity to the virus develops.