Is molluscum contagiosum caused by bacteria?
Molluscum contagiosum is an infection caused by a poxvirus (molluscum contagiosum virus). The result of the infection is usually a benign, mild skin disease characterized by lesions (growths) that may appear anywhere on the body.
What happens if molluscum gets infected?
Sometimes, the skin around the molluscum spots can develop a rash and the skin can become infected with bacteria. If this happens, take your child to a GP.
What type of infection is molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum (mo-LUS-kum kun-tay-jee-OH-sum) is a relatively common viral infection of the skin that results in round, firm, painless bumps ranging in size from a pinhead to a pencil eraser. If the bumps are scratched or injured, the infection can spread to surrounding skin.
What happens when molluscum burst?
These lesions will burst on their own, this is the final stage which involves burst pus-filled papules forming red sores (fourth image from the left). These sores can become infected with bacteria if not properly cared for, leading to secondary infections.
What does an infected molluscum look like?
Molluscum lesions begin as dome-shaped, shiny bumps with a central dimple or whitish “core.” They are pink to skin-colored, and pinhead- to pencil eraser–sized. Molluscum may occur anywhere on the skin except the palms and soles.
Does molluscum have pus?
Because it’s a skin infection, the only real sign of molluscum contagiosum are the small round pink, white, or skin-colored mollusca on the skin. These bumps are filled with a white, waxy pus core that contains the virus, and might have a shiny or “pearly” look.
Should you pop an infected molluscum?
Treat the bumps only if your dermatologist or other health care provider recommends doing so. If you try to remove the bumps on your own or squeeze out the fluid inside, you risk spreading the virus to other parts of your body. Keep the bumps clean and wash your hands after touching the molluscum.
