Molluscum Contagiosum: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips - Urology

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Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus, which primarily affects the skin and can appear as small, raised, flesh-colored bumps. These bumps can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the trunk, arms, legs, and genital area. The infection is generally mild and self-limiting, but it can be concerning due to its appearance and potential for transmission.


Symptoms
The primary symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the appearance of small, round, firm bumps on the skin. These bumps may be:
- Flesh-colored or pearly white
- Smooth and dome-shaped
- Often have a central dimple or indentation
- Painless, but can become itchy or inflamed if scratched or irritated
In your case, the bump you noticed on the base of your penis, which was initially thought to be folliculitis, turned out to be molluscum contagiosum after a biopsy. This is a common scenario, as the lesions can be mistaken for other skin conditions.


Treatment
While molluscum contagiosum is often self-resolving, meaning it can clear up on its own without treatment, there are several treatment options available if the lesions are bothersome or if they spread. These include:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesions with liquid nitrogen.

- Topical treatments: Such as imiquimod cream, which helps stimulate the immune response.

- Curettage: Surgical removal of the lesions.

- Laser therapy: For more extensive cases.

Since you mentioned that you had the lesion surgically removed, this is a common and effective method to eliminate the visible bumps.


Care Tips and Precautions
1. Avoid Scratching: It's crucial to avoid scratching or picking at the lesions, as this can lead to secondary infections or spread the virus to other areas of your skin or to other people.


2. Personal Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices. Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching the affected area.

3. Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, razors, or other personal items that may come into contact with the lesions to prevent spreading the virus.

4. Laundry: You can wash your clothes with those of your family members, but ensure that any items that have come into contact with the lesions are washed thoroughly. Using hot water and a dryer can help eliminate any potential viral particles.

5. Monitoring: Keep an eye on any new bumps or changes in your skin. Molluscum contagiosum can take several months to clear up completely, and new lesions can appear during this time. Typically, the infection resolves within 6 to 12 months, but it can vary from person to person.


When to Seek Medical Advice
If you notice new lesions appearing, or if the existing lesions become painful, inflamed, or show signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or pus), it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess whether further treatment is necessary.


Conclusion
Molluscum contagiosum is generally not considered dangerous, and while it can be a nuisance, it usually resolves on its own. Self-monitoring for new lesions and maintaining good hygiene practices will help manage the condition. If you have concerns about the appearance of new bumps or the healing process, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.