Molluscum Contagiosum Medical Dermatology Conditions

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral skin infection. The most common symptom of MC is small, firm, raised spots on the skin, which usually form in little clusters. MC is usually painless, although some people may feel mild to moderate itchiness. The condition is not a serious threat to health, but it can be annoying and unsightly. In most cases, MC will go away within 18 months without the need for treatment.

The condition is highly infectious. However, most people are resistant to the molluscum contagiosum virus, meaning they are unlikely to develop MC if they come into contact with the virus.

Treatments

1. Cryotherapy involves freezing the lesions with liquid nitrogen to remove them. Each lesion is frozen for 5-10 seconds so that a layer of ice forms over the spot and surrounding skin. You may need several sessions of cryotherapy before each spot clears completely. You will need to wait two to three weeks between each treatment session.

2. Diathermy uses heat to remove the lesions. After you have been given a local anaesthetic to numb the area being treated, your GP or nurse will use a heated electrical device to burn off the lesions.

3. Curettage removes lesions by scraping them off with a thin metal instrument called a curette. As with diathermy, you may have a local anaesthetic to numb your skin before having this type of treatment.

To discuss your Molluscum Contagiosum treatment with a Board Certified Dermatologist please make an online appointment or call (773) 907 8454 today.