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Molluscum Contagiosum services offered in Great Neck, NY
Molluscum contagiosum is an infection that can cause sores on a child’s skin and spreads easily. Jonathan Trager, MD, of TeleDerm Kidz in Great Neck, New York, has the training and experience needed to quickly diagnose this condition and get your child started on a treatment path right away. Call or schedule a visit online today.
Molluscum Contagiosum Q&A
What is molluscum contagiosum, and what causes it?
Molluscum contagiosum is a type of viral skin infection. It creates small sores on the skin and can affect people of all ages. That said, this condition is most commonly found in children under 10.
The virus molluscum contagiosum causes this condition, creating bumps or spots if it enters the skin. It’s highly contagious and spreads easily from one person to another through simple skin contact.
One reason it’s so common in children is that kids spend so much time in close contact at school, in daycare settings, or during play.
What are some signs my child might have molluscum contagiosum?
The primary symptom of this condition is the presence of small, bump-like sores on the skin. You can have just a few of these papules or many, and they can be as tiny as the head of a pin to as large as the diameter of a pencil eraser.
Here are some characteristics of molluscum contagiosum papules:
- Firm feeling
- Dip or dimple in the center
- White or the same color as the surrounding skin
- Purplish or reddish in color
- Drainage of clear or white fluid
These sores can be surrounded by swollen skin and can sometimes cause pain. They’re often itchy, but scratching can spread them.
How is molluscum contagium treated?
If Dr. Trager determines your child has molluscum contagiosum, there are several ways to treat it. Topical medicated creams or ointments are one approach, including options formulated with salicylic acid, tretinoin, or benzoyl peroxide. Oral medications can also safely treat molluscum contagiosum in children.
Removing the papules is another approach. This can be done by freezing the papules, using laser therapy to remove them, or using a sharp blade to manually scrape them off the skin.
Numerous factors can shape your child’s treatment path, including the sores’ location, how many there are, and your child’s overall health.
If you’re concerned about unusual sores on your child’s skin, we encourage you to schedule a diagnostic assessment at TeleDerm Kidz. You can book online in just moments, or give us a call during normal business hours.