Molluscum

[krismself]

Molluscum.  If I have this, how is it treated?

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral infection of the skin or occasionally of the mucous membranes.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.
Individual molluscum lesions may go away on their own and are reported as lasting generally from 6 to 8 weeks, to 2 or 3 months.However via autoinoculation(self causing spread), the disease may propagate and so an outbreak generally lasts longer with mean durations variously reported as 8 months, to about 18 months.Treatment is often unnecessary.
Astringent chemicals applied to the surface of molluscum lesions to destroy successive layers of the skin include trichloroacetic acid, podophyllin resin, potassium hydroxide, and cantharidin.
For mild cases, over-the-counter wart medicines, such as salicylic acid may shorten infection duration. Daily topical application of tretinoin cream ("Retin-A 0.025%") may also trigger resolution. These treatments require several months for the infection to clear, and are often associated with intense inflammation and possibly discomfort.
ref:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molluscum
I recommend that you show yourself to a dermatologist and after the correct diagnosis then treatment can be initiated.

[krismself]

Thanks.  I'm not 100% sure about this and will get in to see a doc as soon as possible.