molluscum contagiosum

I have a 4 year old girl who was diagnosed with molluscum contagiosum and the doctor said the treatment was antibiotics and to pop the lesions on my childs skin. I later took her to another doctor who said absolutely do not pop them as this contributes to the spread of the virus on the skin. can anyone give me some input on what is correct and what is not? I want these things off my little girl as soon as possible. Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Molluscum contagiosum is a common, benign, self limiting viral infection of the skin. It generally affects children and typically occurs in the 2-5 age group. Treatment includes physical destruction or manual extrusion of the lesions, cryotherapy and curettage.

Please get an evaluation done from a dermatologist before going in for any such treatments.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.