Molluscum Contagiosium

About 3 years ago, I had an amount of rash in my face going down to my neck and chest. These pimples were very itchy and reddish. I went to a Dermatologist and I was being told that I had Molluscum Contagiosum which is a sexually transmitted disease or it can also come from furniture mites. I haven't had any sexual experiences at that time and I was worried. The pimples are all gone now but I still worry what was the cause. Any help please?

Thanks!

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

'Molluscum contagiosum lesions are flesh-colored, dome-shaped, and pearly in appearance. They are often 1-5 millimeters in diameter, with a dimpled center. They are generally not painful, but they may itch or become irritated. Picking or scratching the bumps may lead to further infection or scarring. In about 10% of the cases, eczema develops around the lesions. They may occasionally be complicated by secondary bacterial infections.

The central waxy core contains the virus. In a process called autoinoculation, the virus may spread to neighboring skin areas. Children are particularly susceptible to auto-inoculation, and may have widespread clusters of lesions.

The time from infection to the appearance of lesions ranges from 2 week to 6 months, with an average incubation period of 6 weeks. Diagnosis is made on the clinical appearance; the virus cannot routinely be cultured.

In adults, molluscum infections are often sexually transmitted and usually affect the genitals, lower abdomen, buttocks, and inner thighs. In rare cases, molluscum infections are also found on the lips, mouth, and eyelids.'

You could read more about the condition at the following links -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molluscum_contagiosum

and

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/molluscum-contagiosum/DS00672

'Molluscum contagiosum spreads through direct person-to-person contact and through contact with contaminated objects. Because it spreads easily, doctors often recommend medical treatment, especially for adults.'

Let us know if you need any other information and post us about how you are doing.

Regards.