Causes of molluscum contagiosum: photos, symptoms, treatment. Molluscum contagiosum: routes of transmission, signs, when to treat and how, prevention

And rare in adults. In addition, treatment for molluscum contagiosum can vary significantly from case to case.

For example, treatment of molluscum contagiosum in adults generally proceeds differently; more effective means are used that may simply harm children. Many people want to figure out how to treat molluscum contagiosum on their own, but doing this is highly discouraged due to possible consequences and complications.

A doctor - a dermatologist or dermatovenerologist - should explain to the patient how to treat molluscum contagiosum. A treatment regimen is developed after receiving test results.

Treatment at home

In most cases, treating molluscum contagiosum at home is advisable only when the disease has not yet become widespread. In this case, the following can help cope with the disease:

celandine;
calendula;
garlic;
series.

Let us examine each of the above plants, which are used to treat molluscum contagiosum with folk remedies, in more detail.

Celandine. Apply to nodules once a day. It is considered poisonous and therefore requires careful handling.

Calendula. Used in the form of alcohol tinctures, ointments or oils.

Garlic. It is used for food in the form of gruel.

A series. Used in the form of a solution prepared as follows - 2 tablespoons of herb are poured into 250 ml hot water, bring to a boil and infuse for about an hour. The infusion is used three times a day for rubbing.

To get an answer to the question of how to treat molluscum contagiosum at home, you can also read various herbalists that describe the properties medicinal plants. However, with this disease, it is better not to self-medicate; you should definitely seek medical help.

Removal

As a rule, independent removal of molluscum contagiosum is allowed when the rashes are single or small neoplasms occupying a small area of the skin. This is done as follows.

Tweezers are taken and all contents are removed from the papules on the skin. Damaged areas are treated with iodine or oxolinic ointment for several weeks until complete healing. Removing molluscum contagiosum with tweezers is a rather risky procedure; it is better to consult a specialist.

It is also worth noting that the removal of the contents of the papules must be done very carefully due to the fact that the fluid flowing from the growths contains the viruses themselves, which can provoke a relapse of the disease in undamaged areas of the skin. That is why it is recommended to remove molluscum contagiosum with a laser.

This procedure is practically safe due to the non-contact of the contents of the papules with healthy skin. If you wish, you can watch a video of the removal of molluscum contagiosum on the Internet.

Cauterization

If neither herbs nor removing papules on your own could stop the development of the disease, you will need to contact a specialist. He will cauterize the molluscum contagiosum, which is carried out with liquid nitrogen or a laser. The indicated procedures are the most effective and in a safe way treatment of this disease.

Cauterization of molluscum contagiosum with liquid nitrogen involves freezing and destroying the papules. The operation does not require anesthesia, allows you to keep healthy areas of the skin intact, and does not leave scars.

The technique does not require long-term treatment and recovery period, applying bandages, does not make adjustments to the usual lifestyle and is considered optimal for treating the disease in children.

Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum is the fastest and most painless procedure that allows you to get rid of the disease in as soon as possible. In this case, the destruction of diseased cells occurs under the influence of laser beam, healthy areas of the skin are not injured, and the return of the mollusk is extremely rare.

Drugs for treatment

Get rid of molluscum contagiosum completely using medications, almost impossible. In this regard, drugs for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in most cases are not aimed at combating the disease, but at minimizing the activity of the virus and eliminating the characteristic rashes.

The drugs of choice in this case are:

acyclovir;
oxolinic ointment;
feresol;
fluorouracil ointment;
Retin-A cream;
Viferon;
Chronotan;
Chlorophyllipt.

Ointment

It has been clinically proven that ointment for molluscum contagiosum is advisable only in the case of early detection illness, which is associated with a fairly long healing period.

Any ointment for molluscum contagiosum is applied at night, not only to the affected areas, but also to the areas adjacent to them. Treatment of molluscum contagiosum with ointments can completely eliminate the spread of infection.

The next morning, the treated surface is washed with clean water, and clean clothes are put on.

Acyclovir

According to research results, Acyclovir ointment for molluscum contagiosum is one of the most effective topical agents. It acts on viral enzymes, interrupting the process of spreading the virus.

The product is applied to the affected skin, but it can cause the following negative reactions:

soreness and burning;
hives, itching, rashes;
vulvitis

After discontinuation of the drug, these manifestations quickly disappear on their own.

Treatment with iodine

Despite the active development of medical technologies, treatment of molluscum contagiosum with iodine is still very popular and, it should be noted, deservedly so. The indicated treatment consists of applying iodine grid on the affected areas several times a day for a month.

Molluscum contagiosum and celandine

Currently, many patients treat molluscum contagiosum with celandine. This treatment comes down to treating the affected areas with celandine juice, which you can either squeeze out yourself or purchase at a pharmacy. It is worth noting that celandine should be used very carefully due to the fact that the plant is poisonous.

Prevention

Today, prevention of molluscum contagiosum implies:

compliance with the rules of personal hygiene (daily change of underwear, use exclusively your own washcloths and towels, daily shower, especially after visiting the sauna, swimming pool or after sexual intercourse);
regular examination of children attending school, nursery or kindergarten;
pickiness in choosing sexual partners;
timely treatment of patients;
isolation of a patient living in a family, which implies the use of separate dishes, towels, etc.

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease viral nature. The causative agent is molluscum contagiosum virus. The disease is contagious and spreads quickly in close groups. Treatment of molluscum contagiosum with modern methods does not take much time. For adequate therapy You will first need to find out the causes of the disease, so that you can then choose a method to correct the condition. See below for more information about this disease.

Reasons for appearance

Patients ask why this disease appears. The reason may be different, but the disease is most often provoked by:

Skin diseases. The weakened local immunity of this organ is not able to resist viruses;
Loss of strength or decreased immunity. This occurs after illness, consumption of certain foods, or joining a new group. This phenomenon is often encountered by mothers of children who are forced to visit kindergarten. In such establishments, shellfish is very common;
Visit to the swimming pool. In a warm and humid environment, molluscum contagiosum virus multiplies rapidly. When exposed to such conditions, the skin loses its protective abilities. Even a scratch serves as a gateway for molluscum contagiosum. Is it possible to use the pool at all? Yes, but you need to monitor your immunity and take care of the health of your skin. At the first symptoms, stop visiting the establishment and begin treatment.

Symptoms and clinical signs

Medical reference books describe the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum virus and popular treatment methods. TO alarm bells include:

Flesh-colored rashes with a depression in the center. They merge and form conglomerates on the penis, scrotum, heel, mouth and other parts of the body in children and adults. Molluscum contagiosum likes to live in the area of the mucous membranes, and in adults - in the groin area, on the back. Often on the penis. This type of molluscum contagiosum is called genital. Sometimes they are confused and mistaken for warts. After the papules mature, a secretion is released. It contains a huge amount of molluscum contagiosum virus. Then such rashes become covered with a crust.
Itching sensations. Discomfort with a contagious disease increases with secretion and healing of skin lesions.
Temperature. With a large number of papules, young children develop fever. Most often these are infants.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum virus is simple and in most cases can be limited only traditional way(visual inspection). Specific pimples on the pubic area or other parts of the body with a concave middle are molluscum contagiosum.

The dermatologist takes a piece of the papule and conducts a study: isolation of the molluscum contagiosum virus in complex cases with a confusing clinical picture. A blood test is also done. It is necessary to identify possible infectious diseases. Treatment can begin after diagnosis. The contagious disease received a special ICD code - B.08.1.

Treatment methods

The disease in men and women with normal immunity and the absence of additional viral illnesses can go away on its own. Treatment in adults is carried out for several reasons:

The rash is injured by clothing or when moving. This often happens in intimate place. Redness begins. The consequences of injury are infection and the onset of a purulent-inflammatory process.
Preventing the spread of the disease. Molluscum contagiosum virus is contagious. Therefore, it is important to prevent infection of people in groups.
Aesthetic side. Molluscum contagiosum often settles on the eyelids and face. Papules look like warts and cause discomfort to a person. Especially if they are located in intimate areas or on the face. As a result, urgent treatment is required.

Dermatologists offer modern methods effective fight with a contagious infection, external manifestations of the disease:

Removal of molluscum contagiosum virus with laser.
Cryotherapy (cryodestruction, cauterization with liquid nitrogen).
Removal of contagious papules using an electrocoagulator.
Mechanically (tweezers, needle or other surgical devices).

The type of correction of the contagious condition is chosen only by the attending dermatologist. You shouldn’t decide on your own how to treat a disease!

Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum

A laser is used to combat papules with molluscum contagiosum. It destroys rashes and conglomerates. The method has significant advantages:

fast regeneration;
painlessness;
speed of manipulation;
there is no need to be in a hospital setting;
high hygiene of manipulation;
minimal damage (after the scars heal, there are no scars, scars or other collagen changes).

Cryotherapy - cold treatment

Cryotherapy is a painless method surgical treatment infectious contagious skin disease. Removing molluscum contagiosum with liquid nitrogen has the following advantages:

low-traumatic. After it there are no scars left; contagious papules on the face can be treated with it;
no contraindications for use;
rapid recovery and healing.

The disadvantage is the high background noise that the device creates. Hence, to correct the condition in children, another method is used.

Removal with an electrocoagulator

Electrocoagulation of papules has the principle of destruction of inflammation by high temperatures. Cryotherapy gives this result, but at ultra-low temperatures. The advantages of modern dermatological manipulation are:

speed of the procedure;
fast healing;
availability. Removal is carried out in any clinic;
absence of scar changes.

Mechanical removal

They fight molluscum contagiosum rashes using a mechanical method. Before manipulation, anesthetic gels and ointments are applied to the affected areas. Sometimes a needle is used to puncture the molluscum contagiosum papule. In most cases, special surgical instrument The papule is excised. The success of the manipulation depends only on the practical skills of the medical worker. The only advantage of this method is its low cost. Flaws:

Highly traumatic. Scars and deep scars may remain. Therefore, this treatment for molluscum contagiosum is not recommended for facial skin;
Soreness. It is better not to use it for treating children;
Possibility of infection. The presented method is dangerous in this regard. For treatment of molluscum contagiosum to help, it is necessary to follow the rules of hygiene and wound care.

Drug treatment of molluscum contagiosum with drugs

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum at home is carried out with medication. This therapy is combined with mechanical removal of papules. Homeopathy can be used as an addition to therapy. Antiviral drugs and antibiotics alleviate the condition and guarantee quick results. Pharmacology produces drugs in various forms to make application and use as convenient as possible. To correct the condition and cleanse the skin, the following are used: creams, ointments and gels, tablets, alcohol solutions.

Pills

Treatment with tablets has many advantages: ease of use, the ability to carry out therapy at a time convenient for the patient. The following are considered popular:

Acyclovir. Used to fight viruses and activate the body's natural forces. Take 4 tablets 4 times a day at even intervals. Treatment lasts 5-7 days. Contraindications for use: pregnancy, breastfeeding, individual intolerance to medicinal components;
Isoprinosine. Used to combat molluscum contagiosum for adults and children over 3 years old. Pregnant women are treated with other antiviral medications. Contraindications: metabolic disorders, pregnancy or breastfeeding. The course of treatment consists of 4-3 doses per day in the amount of 7-8 pieces for adults, children - 0.5 tablets per 5 kg of weight. The duration of treatment is 5-7 days.

Crema

Treat the infection at home with creams. To combat lesions use:

Imiquad. A product with immunomodulatory and antiviral properties. Before applying the drug, you need to cleanse the skin. After applying the cream, do not wash for 10 hours. Treatment lasts 5-7 days. For children under 12 years of age, pregnant women, people with allergies to the ingredients of the product, another drug is selected;
Cycloferon. Used as an antiviral and immunomodulatory agent. Molluscum contagiosum goes away after 5 days of regular use. Apply to papules and rashes 2 times a day. It is worth choosing another product for pregnant and lactating women, people who have allergic reactions to the components of the cream.

Ointments and gels

Ointments and gel are used as drug therapy for molluscum contagiosum in children and adults. The basis of such pharmacological forms interferon and salicylic acid serve. They guarantee:

Protection against infection of healthy skin cells with a contagious virus;
Destruction of the shell of the molluscum contagiosum virus;
Preventing its reproduction;
Preventing infection of other people through any route of transmission.

The following are considered popular in the pharmacy chain:

Viferon. An ointment that restores the body's defenses and fights the molluscum contagiosum virus. Its peculiarity is that it can be used by pregnant women, women who are undergoing varnish, and children over 1 year of age. The course of treatment is 5 days. Single dose means the size of a pea. Adults apply 4 times a day, children under 12 years old - 2 times;
Allomedin is a broad-spectrum antiviral ointment. The gel is colorless, absorbs quickly and leaves no marks on clothes. It can be used even by pregnant and nursing mothers. Apply to clean skin 1-3 times a day. For results, it is necessary to carry out a course of treatment for 7 days.

Alcohol solutions

For external treatment, alcohol solutions are used. This method is simple and inexpensive. The most commonly used alcohol solution is Chlorophyllipt. They treat papules and inflammations to prevent suppuration. Molluscum contagiosum may go away on its own, but Chlorophyllipt will help prevent the development of complications.

Treatment with folk remedies

Therapy traditional methods– it is accessible, safe and cheap. Therefore, there are many supporters of this method. Popular ones are:

Garlic. The juice or grated pulp of the plant is applied to the rash several times a day. The pathogen will disappear in 5 days. Contraindications include individual skin sensitivity and a tendency to allergic reactions on garlic.
Celandine. A decoction is prepared from it: 1.5 tablespoons per 1 cup of boiling water, boil in a water bath for 15 minutes. Wipe the affected areas of the skin with the liquid 3 times a day. Molluscum contagiosum disappears in 7-9 days.
Series. The solution is prepared from 1.5 tablespoons of herbs and a glass of boiling water. The mixture is wrapped and infused in a warm place overnight. The decoction is used to wipe the papules several times a day. If the pimple has festered, then treat it with iodine and potassium permanganate.
Calendula. An ointment is prepared from a fresh plant: crushed raw materials and alcohol in equal proportions. The product is applied to the affected skin several times a day. Before manipulation, the papules are opened.
Bird cherry leaves. The juice or paste of the leaves is applied to the opened pimple. You need to smear several times a day. This guarantees a quick recovery.

How to treat molluscum contagiosum in children

Treatment of a contagious disease in children is carried out according to the scheme for adults. Treatment for molluscum contagiosum in children includes:

Mechanical removal of papules;
Taking medications;
Immunomodulatory therapy with folk remedies or pharmacological drugs.

During this period, body hygiene is important. But the contagious pathogen spreads well in water and invades new areas of the body. Therefore, they wash the child quickly: only the intimate areas and the scalp.

Various pediatricians give their recommendations on how to treat molluscum contagiosum virus in children. Children are especially susceptible to the disease. This is facilitated by low immunity, close contact with children in institutions, and a long incubation period. Dr. Komarovsky gives detailed recommendations on this issue. In the video you can see clear instructions on how to treat a contagious disease at home.

Prevention

Prevention is necessary in order not to become infected yourself and not to endanger other people. Molluscum contagiosum is highly contagious. However, if you follow simple but effective rules, you can easily protect your family and yourself from such an illness. Effective activities against molluscum contagiosum are:

Do not violate the integrity of the papule. If you decide to squeeze it out yourself, then you need to cauterize the contagious pimple with iodine. The contents of the nodule contain an infection that transmits the disease. Therefore, it is necessary to treat the affected area of the body. An aseptic solution is used for manipulation.
Avoid visiting saunas and swimming pools if you are affected by molluscum contagiosum or have a weakened immune system. If you are a carrier of the disease, this will help you avoid infecting other people. If your defenses are at zero, then you should not expose yourself to the risk of becoming infected with molluscum contagiosum.
You should avoid peelings and scrubs if inflammation is on the face. During the procedure, there is a possibility of causing a contagious infection or injuring the skin. Wait for the treatment to finish.
Disinfect the premises, regularly change and wash clothes and linen. With such activities, the chances of being healthy increase.
Refrain from having sex if you have the genital form of molluscum contagiosum. During close skin-to-skin contact, when your partner's skin comes into contact with yours, there is a risk of infection. Therefore, it is worth refraining from intimacy until the papules go away and the inflammation changes color, the treatment is not complete.

But it creates visible cosmetic defects, which many people want to get rid of with treatment, without waiting for the rash to go away on its own.

General characteristics of the disease

Molluscum contagiosum is also called contagious mollusk, molluscum epitheliale or epithelioma contagiosum. The disease is a viral infection that affects the skin. The virus enters the cells of the basal layer of the epidermis and causes accelerated division of cellular structures, as a result of which small growths-nodules of a round shape with an umbilical depression in the center are formed on the surface of the skin. The depression in the central part of the nodule is formed due to the destruction of epidermal cells. The growths themselves contain viral particles and a large number of randomly located epidermal cells.

Molluscum contagiosum is a benign disease and is not classified as a tumor, since the formation and growth of nodules is caused by the impact of the virus on a specific small area of the skin. There is no inflammatory process in the epidermis in the growth zones of molluscum contagiosum nodules.

Molluscum contagiosum is quite widespread in the population, and people of any age and gender get sick. However, the infection most often occurs in children 2–6 years old, adolescents and people over 60 years old. Children under one year of age almost never become infected with molluscum contagiosum, which is most likely due to the presence of maternal antibodies transmitted to the baby through the placenta during fetal development.

Most at risk of infection molluscum contagiosum people with weakened immune systems, for example, HIV-infected people, cancer patients, allergy sufferers, those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and taking cytostatics or glucocorticoid hormones. In addition, there is a high risk of infection among those who are constantly in contact with the skin of a large number of people, for example, massage therapists, nurses, doctors, nurses in hospitals and clinics, pool trainers, bathhouse attendants, etc.

Molluscum contagiosum is widespread, that is, in any country and climatic zone possible infection with this infection. Moreover, in regions with hot and humid climates, as well as low level In everyday household hygiene, epidemics and outbreaks of molluscum contagiosum are even recorded.

The disease is caused orthopoxvirus, which belongs to the family Poxviridae, subfamily Chordopoxviridae and genus Molluscipoxvirus. This virus is related to viruses smallpox, chickenpox and vaccinations. Currently, 4 varieties of orthopoxvirus have been identified (MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3, MCV-4), but molluscum contagiosum is most often caused by viruses of types 1 and 2 (MCV-1, MCV-2).

Molluscum contagiosum virus is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person through close contact (skin to skin), as well as indirectly when using common household items, for example, shower accessories, underwear, dishes, toys, etc. In adults, infection with molluscum contagiosum usually occurs sexually, and the virus infects a healthy partner not through the secretions of the genital organs, but through close contact of bodies. That is why in adults, molluscum contagiosum nodules are very often located in the groin, on the lower abdomen, in the perineum, and also on inner surface hips

However, it has now been established that many people, even when infected, do not get sick with molluscum contagiosum, which is due to the peculiarities of the functioning of the immune system, which does not allow the virus to multiply, but suppresses and destroys it, preventing the infection from becoming active.

From the moment the molluscum contagiosum virus enters the skin of a healthy person until nodules appear, it takes from 2 weeks to six months. Respectively, incubation period infection ranges from 14 days to 6 months.

After completion of the incubation period, the disease enters the active stage, in which dense protruding nodules spherical or oval in shape and of various sizes - from 1 to 10 mm in diameter. Sometimes nodules merging with each other can form giant plaques up to 3–5 cm in diameter. The nodules of molluscum contagiosum are dense, shiny, pearly white, pink or gray-yellow. Some nodules may have a umbilical-shaped depression in the center, colored red-pink. However, such depressions are usually not present in all nodules, but only in 10–15%. When you press on the nodule with tweezers, a white pasty mass comes out of it, which is a mixture of dead epidermal cells and viral particles.

The nodules slowly increase in size, reaching their maximum size 6 to 12 weeks after appearance. After this, the formations do not grow, but gradually die off, as a result of which they disappear on their own after 3 to 6 months.

The number of rashes can vary - from single nodules to numerous papules. Due to the fact that self-infection is possible, the number of nodules may increase over time, as the person himself spreads the virus throughout the skin.

Typically, molluscum contagiosum nodules are concentrated in one limited area of the skin, and are not scattered throughout the body, for example, in the armpits, abdomen, face, groin, etc. Most often, nodules are localized on the neck, torso, armpits, face and genital area. In rare cases, elements of molluscum contagiosum are localized on the scalp, soles, skin of the lips, tongue, and mucous membrane of the cheeks.

Diagnostics molluscum contagiosum is not difficult, since the characteristic appearance nodules allows you to recognize the disease without using any additional techniques.

Treatment Molluscum contagiosum is not carried out in all cases, since usually within 6 to 9 months the nodules go away on their own and no longer form. In rare cases, self-healing is delayed for a period of 3 to 4 years. However, if a person wants to get rid of nodules without waiting for self-healing, then the formations are removed in various ways (mechanical scraping with a Volkmann spoon, cauterization with a laser, liquid nitrogen, electric shock etc.). Typically, removal of molluscum contagiosum nodules is recommended for adults so that they do not serve as a source of infection for others. But in the case of illness in children, dermatovenerologists most often recommend not treating the infection, but waiting until the nodules go away on their own, because any procedure for removing formations is stressful for the child.

Molluscum contagiosum – photo

Photo of molluscum contagiosum in children.

Photo of molluscum contagiosum in men.

Photo of molluscum contagiosum in women.

Causes of the disease (molluscum contagiosum virus)

The cause of molluscum contagiosum is a pathogenic microorganism - orthopoxvirus from the family Poxviridae of the genus Molluscipoxvirus. This virus is widespread and affects people of any age and gender, as a result of which the population of all countries suffers from molluscum contagiosum.

There are currently 4 known varieties of orthopoxvirus, which are designated by Latin abbreviations - MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3 and MCV-4. Cause of molluscum contagiosum in countries former USSR most often are viruses of the first and second types - MCV-1 and MCV-2. Moreover, in children, molluscum contagiosum is usually provoked by orthopoxvirus type 1 (MCV-1), and in adults by type 2 virus (MCV-2). This situation is due to the fact that type 1 virus is transmitted mainly by contact and indirectly, through shared objects, and type 2 virus is transmitted through sexual contact. However, all types of virus cause the same clinical manifestations.

Routes of transmission

Molluscum contagiosum is transmitted only from person to person, since animals do not suffer from this infectious disease and are not virus carriers.

Transmission of the molluscum contagiosum virus occurs from a sick person to healthy people through household contact, indirect contact, sexual contact and through water. Contact and household path transmission involves infecting a healthy person through touching the skin of a child or adult suffering from molluscum contagiosum. Accordingly, any tactile contact (for example, hugs, handshakes, pressing close to each other during rush hours in public transport, massage, wrestling, boxing, breastfeeding, etc.) with a person suffering from molluscum contagiosum can lead to infection of any healthy person, regardless of age and gender.

Indirect contact path transmission of molluscum contagiosum is the most common and consists of infection healthy people through touching general subjects household items on which viral particles remain after they were used by a person suffering from an infection. That is, infection can occur through toys, cutlery, dishes, bedding and underwear, carpets, upholstery, towels, washcloths, razors and any other items that a person suffering from molluscum contagiosum has come into contact with. Due to the possibility of indirect infection in close groups, especially children's, outbreaks of the disease occur occasionally when almost the entire group becomes infected.

Sexual tract transmission of molluscum contagiosum is typical only for adults who have unprotected sexual contact (without a condom). With this route of transmission, the nodules are always located in close proximity or in the genital area.

Waterway transmission can be conditionally classified as indirect contact, since in this case, a person suffering from molluscum contagiosum introduces viral particles into the aquatic environment, which can be “picked up” by any other person in contact with the same water. This route of transmission makes it possible to become infected with molluscum contagiosum when visiting swimming pools, baths, saunas, water attractions, etc.

In addition, a person who already has molluscum contagiosum may autoinfection through friction and scratching of the skin.

Regardless of the route of transmission, the course and clinical manifestations of molluscum contagiosum are always the same.

Not all cases of exposure to the virus will result in infection, as some people are immune to the infection. That is, even if a person who is immune to molluscum contagiosum comes into contact with the virus, he will not become infected and will not develop an infection. All other people become infected and develop clinical signs upon contact with the virus.

The most vulnerable and susceptible to infection with molluscum contagiosum are people with reduced activity of the immune system, such as, for example, HIV-infected people taking glucocorticoid hormones, people over 60 years of age, etc.

Molluscum contagiosum - symptoms

Course of the disease

From the moment of infection with molluscum contagiosum until the first appearance of clinical symptoms, it takes from 2 to 24 weeks. After the incubation period is completed, small dense painless nodules, ranging in size from 1 to 3 mm in diameter, appear on the area of the skin where the molluscum contagiosum virus has been introduced. These nodules slowly increase in size to 2–10 mm in diameter over 6–12 weeks, after which they disappear on their own within 6–12 weeks. In total, from the moment the first nodules appear until they completely disappear, an average of 12 to 18 weeks passes, but in some cases the disease can last much longer - from 2 to 5 years. After recovery from molluscum contagiosum, lifelong immunity is developed, so re-infection occurs only in exceptional cases.

However, until all the nodules on the skin have disappeared, self-infection is possible when scratching or rubbing the affected areas of the skin against healthy ones. In this case, new nodules of molluscum contagiosum appear on the newly infected area of skin, which will also grow within 6–12 weeks, after which they will involute on their own over 12–18 weeks. Respectively, approximate period self-healing should be counted by adding 18 months to the date of the last nodule.

Molluscum contagiosum is a harmless disease that tends to go away on its own, without any special treatment, as soon as its own the immune system suppress the activity of the virus. Rashes, as a rule, do not bother a person, since they do not hurt or itch, but are for the most part only a cosmetic problem. In addition, the virus does not spread through the blood or lymph throughout the body and does not affect other organs and systems, as a result of which molluscum contagiosum is safe disease, which is most often recommended not to be treated precisely for this reason by special means, but just wait until your own immunity kills the virus and, accordingly, the nodules disappear.

However, often people do not want to wait until the nodules of molluscum contagiosum go away on their own, but want to remove them for cosmetic reasons, or so as not to be a source of infection for others. In such cases, you need to be mentally prepared for the fact that after removing the existing nodules, new ones will appear, since solely the process of destroying the rash does not affect the activity of the virus in the thickness of the skin, and until its own immune system suppresses it, the pathogenic microorganism can cause the formation of nodules again and again.

After the spontaneous disappearance of the nodules of molluscum contagiosum, there are no traces left on the skin - scars or scars, and only in rare cases small areas of depigmentation can form. If the nodules of molluscum contagiosum were removed by various methods, then small and inconspicuous scars may form at the site of their localization.

Sometimes the skin around the nodules of molluscum contagiosum becomes inflamed, in this case it is necessary local application antibiotic ointments. The appearance of a nodule on the eyelid is a problem and an indication for its removal, since the growth of the formation can lead to visual impairment and loss of eyelash hair follicles.

If a person develops molluscum contagiosum nodules in large numbers, different areas bodies or are very large in size (more than 10 mm in diameter), this may indicate immunodeficiency. In such cases, it is recommended to contact an immunologist to correct your immune status.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum

The main and only symptom of molluscum contagiosum that can be seen with the naked eye is the characteristic nodules protruding above the surface of the skin. Nodules can be localized on any part of the skin, but most often formations form on the face, neck, upper part chest, in the armpits, on the hands and forearms, on the lower abdomen, inner thighs, pubis, around the anus and on the skin in the genital area. However, despite the wide range of localization options for molluscum contagiosum nodules, as a rule, all formations are always grouped in only one area of the skin. For example, nodules can be located on the neck, face or abdomen, but all formations are grouped in only one area and are absent from other parts of the body. Moreover, usually all nodules of molluscum contagiosum are located on the area of the skin into which the infection virus has penetrated. In rare cases, nodules can be randomly located over the entire surface of the body.

The nodules do not appear one at a time and gradually, but almost simultaneously, several formations are formed that begin to grow slowly. As a rule, from 5 to 10 nodules appear, but in some cases their number can reach several dozen.

At the time of appearance, the nodules are small, 1–2 mm in diameter, but within 6–12 weeks they grow to 2–10 mm. Sometimes some elements can grow up to 15 mm in diameter, and usually there are nodules on the skin of different sizes, but of the same appearance. If the formations of molluscum contagiosum are located close to each other, then they can merge, forming one giant tuberous surface up to 5 cm in diameter. Such giant nodes can become inflamed and suppurate, resulting in the formation of crusts and ulcers on their surface.

At any stage of growth, the nodules protrude above the surface of the skin, have a hemispherical shape and slightly flattened on top, smooth edges, dense consistency, and are colored pearl-white or pale pink. Moreover, at the beginning of the disease, the formations have a dome shape, a very dense consistency and a color slightly lighter than the surrounding skin, but over time they become soft, take on the shape of a semicircle, and the color may change to pinkish. Often the nodules may have a waxy sheen. A few weeks after the appearance of the formations, a depression similar to a navel appears in the central part of the formations. When the nodules are squeezed from the sides, a white, pasty mass containing dead epidermal cells and viral particles is released from the umbilical opening.

The nodules have a smooth surface and are slightly different in color from the surrounding skin. The skin around the formations is usually unchanged, but sometimes an inflammatory rim is observed around the perimeter of the nodules. The formations do not bother a person because they do not hurt, do not itch, and, in principle, may not be noticed at all if they are localized in areas of the skin that are usually covered by clothing and are not visible. In rare cases, the nodules may itch occasionally. At these moments, it is very important to restrain yourself and not scratch the formations, since scratching and traumatizing the nodules can lead to subsequent transfer of the virus to other areas of the skin. In such situations, self-infection occurs, and elements of molluscum contagiosum form on another area of the skin into which the virus was introduced. It must be remembered that until the last nodule disappears, molluscum contagiosum remains infectious.

When nodules are localized on the eyelids, molluscum contagiosum can lead to conjunctivitis.

The described clinical picture of molluscum contagiosum is a classic form of infection. However, in addition to this, the disease can occur in the following atypical forms that differ from the classic morphological characteristics nodules:

Giant form– single nodules measuring 2 cm in diameter or more are formed.
Pedicular form– large large nodules are formed by the merging of closely located small ones. Moreover, such large nodes are attached to the unchanged skin with a thin stalk, that is, they seem to hang on the skin.
Generalized form– several dozen nodules are formed, scattered over the entire surface of the skin of the body.
Miliary form– the nodules are very small, less than 1 mm in diameter, in appearance resembling milia (“grass”).
Ulcerative-cystic form– large nodes are formed by the fusion of several small ones, the surface of which becomes ulcerated or cysts form on it.

Regardless of the form of molluscum contagiosum, the course of the infection is the same, and the differences relate only to the morphological characteristics of the nodules.

Molluscum contagiosum: characteristics of the rash, infection, incubation period, symptoms, quarantine, consequences (opinion of a dermatovenerologist) - video

Molluscum contagiosum in children

About 80% of cases of molluscum contagiosum occur in children under 15 years of age. Thus, it can be said that children are more susceptible to infection compared to adults. Molluscum contagiosum most often affects children aged 1 to 4 years. Until the age of one, children almost never get an infection, because, as scientists suggest, they are protected by maternal antibodies received during fetal development. In addition, children who suffer from eczema, atopic dermatitis, or who are taking glucocorticoid hormones to treat any other condition are known to be at greater risk of infection.

Most often, children become infected with molluscum contagiosum when visiting a swimming pool and playing sports that involve close tactile contact and body contact with each other (for example, wrestling, boxing, etc.).

Symptoms and course Molluscum contagiosum in children is exactly the same as in adults. However, due to weak volitional control of their desires, children can often scratch the nodules of molluscum contagiosum and thereby become self-infected, transferring the virus to other areas of the skin, which leads to the constant appearance of new foci of rashes and prolongs the course of the disease. In addition, scratching the nodules can lead to their inflammation and secondary infection, which requires treatment with antibiotics.

In children, nodules can be localized on any part of the body, but most often they are located on the chest, abdomen, arms, legs, armpits, groin area and genitals. The location of formations in the genital area does not necessarily mean that the child became infected during sexual contact. The baby could simply get the molluscum contagiosum virus on his fingers from a sick person, and then scratch the skin in the genital area, as a result of which the infection occurred precisely in this area of the skin.

Diagnostics Molluscum contagiosum in children is not difficult, since the nodules have a characteristic appearance. Therefore, a dermatologist will make a diagnosis based on a simple examination of the formations. In some cases, when the dermatologist is in doubt, he may take a biopsy or scraping from the nodule to examine its structure under a microscope.

Treatment Molluscum contagiosum is usually not performed in children, because after 3 months - 4 years all nodules disappear on their own, that is, self-healing occurs as a result of the immune system suppressing the activity of the virus. Therefore, given the fact that molluscum contagiosum heals itself after some time, so as not to cause discomfort to the child, the nodules are not removed. However, in some cases, doctors recommend removing nodules on the skin of children, since they constantly scratch them and become self-infected, as a result of which the disease lasts a very long time. In such situations, the nodules are removed mechanically, by freezing with liquid nitrogen, or using formulations containing wart-removing agents, such as salicylic acid, tretinoin, cantharidin, or benzoyl peroxide.

Despite the availability of various methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, doctors prefer not to use them in children, since all these methods will only help eliminate the formations, but will not prevent them reappearance as long as the virus in the skin is active and not suppressed by the child’s own immune system. In addition, any method can lead to the formation of scars, scars, burns or areas of depigmentation at the site of localization of the nodules. And when the nodules go away on their own, scars or cicatrices are never formed at the site of their localization, only sometimes there may be foci of depigmentation.

For the fastest self-healing of molluscum contagiosum in children, the following rules must be followed:

Do not scratch, rub or injure the nodules;
Wash your hands frequently with soap;
Wipe areas of the body with nodules 1 – 2 times a day disinfectant solutions(alcohol, chlorhexidine, etc.);
If you are going to have contact with other children or people, then to reduce the risk of infecting them, it is recommended to seal the nodules with an adhesive plaster and cover them with clothing;
Do not shave hair on areas of the body where nodules are located;
Lubricate dry skin with cream to avoid cracks, ulceration and inflammation of nodules.

Molluscum contagiosum in women

The clinical picture, causative factors, course and principles of treatment of molluscum contagiosum in women do not have any features compared to men or children. Molluscum contagiosum also does not affect the course of pregnancy, the growth and development of the fetus, so women who are carrying a child and become infected do not have to worry about the health of the unborn baby.

Features of the disease in men

Molluscum contagiosum in men, like in women, does not have any obvious features. The only feature that can be distinctive feature infections in men are the possibility of localization of nodules on the skin of the penis, which leads to difficulties in sexual intercourse. In women, molluscum contagiosum never affects the mucous membranes of the vagina, but can only be localized on the skin in the genital area. Of course, this also creates difficulties during sexual intercourse, but not as pronounced as when localizing nodules on the penis.

Features of molluscum contagiosum of various localizations

Molluscum contagiosum on the face. When localizing nodules on the face, it is recommended not to remove them, but to leave them and wait for self-healing, since if the formations disappear on their own, then in their place there will be no traces and scars that create cosmetic defects. If you remove nodules using any modern method, there is a risk of scars and cicatricial formation.

Molluscum contagiosum on the eyelid. If the nodule is localized on the eyelid, it is recommended to remove it, since otherwise it can injure the mucous membrane of the eye and cause conjunctivitis or other more severe eye diseases.

Molluscum contagiosum on the genitals. If the nodules are localized near the genital organs, in the anus or on the penis, then it is better to remove them in any way, without waiting for them to disappear on their own. This tactic is based on the fact that the location of the nodules on the genitals or in the genital area leads to their traumatization during sexual intercourse, which, in turn, provokes infection of the partner and the spread of infection to other areas of the skin. As a result, nodules that appear on the genitals can very quickly spread throughout the body.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is not difficult and, as a rule, is made on the basis of examination of characteristic nodules by a dermatologist. In almost all cases, no additional diagnostic methods are required to confirm the diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum.

However, in some rather rare cases, when the doctor has doubts to confirm molluscum contagiosum, additional examinations are carried out. Such additional examinations involve taking a small piece of the nodule and then examining it under a microscope. Microscopy of a nodule biopsy allows one to determine exactly what the nodule is and, accordingly, whether it is a manifestation of molluscum contagiosum or some other disease (for example, keratoacanthoma, syphilis, etc.).

Nodules of molluscum contagiosum must be distinguish from the following externally similar formations, also localized on the skin:

Flat warts. Such warts, as a rule, are multiple, localized on the face and back of the hands, and are small round-shaped blisters with a smooth surface, colored in the color of the surrounding skin.
Vulgar warts. As a rule, they are localized on the back of the hand and are dense blisters with an uneven and rough surface. Papules may be scaly and lack a umbilical-shaped depression in the center.
Keratoacanthomas. They are single convex formations, hemispherical in shape and colored pale red or a shade of normal surrounding skin. Keratoacanthomas are usually located on open areas of the skin and have depressions on the surface that look like small craters, which are filled with horny scales. Horny masses are easily removed from the craters, and their cleaning does not cause bleeding. Attempts to remove the pasty contents of molluscum contagiosum nodules, on the contrary, often lead to bleeding.
Milia ("millet"). They are small white dots localized in the sebaceous glands of the skin. Milia are formed due to the production of too dense sebum, which does not flow out of the pores, but remains in them and clogs their lumen. These formations are associated with a violation fat metabolism, and are localized on the face in the form of numerous or single white dots.
Acne vulgar. They are inflamed conical-shaped papules with a soft consistency, colored pink or bluish-red.
Scabies. With scabies, small red or flesh-colored papules appear on the skin, arranged as if in lines. Scabies papules itch very much, unlike molluscum contagiosum nodules. In addition, scabies nodules are usually localized in the spaces between the fingers, on the crease of the wrist and under the mammary glands in women.
Dermatofibromas. They are hard and very dense nodules of various colors that are pressed into the skin when you press on them from the side. Dermatofibromas are never found in groups.
Basal cell carcinoma. Externally, the formations are very similar to the nodules of molluscum contagiosum; they also have a pearlescent sheen and are raised above the skin. But basal cell carcinoma is always single; these formations are never located in groups.

Which doctor should I contact for molluscum contagiosum?

If molluscum contagiosum develops, you should contact Dermatologist (make an appointment), which diagnoses and treats this disease. If the dermatologist is unable to perform any necessary removal procedures, he will refer the patient to another specialist, e.g. surgeon (make an appointment), physiotherapist (make an appointment) etc.

Molluscum contagiosum - treatment

General principles of therapy

Currently, molluscum contagiosum, unless the nodules are localized on the eyelids or in the genital area, is recommended not to be treated at all, since after 3 to 18 months the immune system will be able to suppress the activity of the orthopoxvirus, and all formations will disappear on their own, leaving no traces on the skin. or traces (scars, scars, etc.). The fact is that immunity to the molluscum contagiosum virus is developed, but this happens slowly, so the body needs not a week to heal itself from the infection, as in the case of ARVI, but several months or even up to 2 - 5 years. And if you remove the nodules of molluscum contagiosum before they disappear on their own, then, firstly, you can leave scars on the skin, and secondly, this increases the risk of their reappearance, and in even larger quantities, since the virus is still active. Therefore, given that self-healing always occurs, and it is only a matter of time, doctors recommend not treating molluscum contagiosum by removing the nodules, but simply waiting a little until they disappear on their own.

The only situations when it is still recommended to remove nodules of molluscum contagiosum are their localization on the genitals or eyelids, as well as severe discomfort caused by the formation to a person. In other cases, it is better to leave the nodules and wait for them to disappear on their own after the activity of the virus is suppressed by the immune system.

However, if a person wants to remove the nodules, then this is done. Moreover, the reason for such a desire, as a rule, is aesthetic considerations.

For the removal of molluscum contagiosum nodules, the following surgical methods have been officially approved by the Ministries of Health of the CIS countries:

Curettage (scraping out nodules with a curette or Volkmann spoon);
Cryodestruction (destruction of nodules with liquid nitrogen);
Husking (removing the core of nodules with thin tweezers);
Laser destruction (destruction of nodules with CO 2 laser);
Electrocoagulation (destruction of nodules by electric current - “cauterization”).

In practice, in addition to these officially approved methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, other methods are used. These methods involve influencing the nodules of molluscum contagiosum with various chemicals in the composition of ointments and solutions that can destroy the structure of formations. Thus, currently, ointments and solutions containing tretinoin, cantharidin, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, imiquimod, podophyllotoxin, chlorophyllipt, fluorouracil, oxolin, benzoyl peroxide, as well as interferons alpha-2a and alpha 2b are used to remove nodules.

Such chemical methods for removing shellfish cannot be called traditional methods, since they involve the use of medications, as a result of which they are considered to be unofficial, practice-tested methods, but not approved by the Ministries of Health. Since these methods, according to reviews from doctors and patients, are quite effective and less traumatic compared to surgical methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, we will also consider them in the subsection below.

Removal of molluscum contagiosum

Let's consider the characteristics of surgical and informal conservative methods of removing molluscum contagiosum. But first, we consider it necessary to point out that any surgical methods for removing nodules are quite painful, as a result of which it is recommended to use local anesthetics for manipulation. EMLA ointment 5% provides the best pain relief to the skin. Other anesthetics, such as lidocaine, novocaine and others, are ineffective.

Laser removal of molluscum contagiosum. The nodules are targeted with a beam of a CO 2 laser or pulsed laser. To destroy formations, it is optimal to set the following parameters of the laser beam: wavelength 585 nm, frequency 0.5 - 1 Hz, spot diameter 3 - 7 mm, energy density 2 - 8 J/cm 2, pulse duration 250 - 450 ms. During the procedure, each nodule is irradiated with a laser, after which the skin is treated with 5% alcohol solution Yoda If, after a week after the procedure, the nodules have not crusted over and fallen off, then another session of laser irradiation of the formations is performed.

These methods are unsuitable for removing nodules for cosmetic reasons, since as a result of curettage or peeling, sinking scars may form at the site of the formations.

Ointment for molluscum contagiosum - removal of nodules with chemicals. To remove nodules of molluscum contagiosum, they can be lubricated regularly, 1-2 times a day, with ointments and solutions containing the following substances:

Tretinoin (Vesanoid, Lokacid, Retin-A, Tretinoin) - ointments are applied to the nodules pointwise 1 - 2 times a day for 6 hours, after which they are washed off with water. The nodules are lubricated until they disappear;
Cantharidin (Spanish fly or homeopathic preparations) - ointments are applied to the nodules pointwise 1 - 2 times a day until the formations disappear;
Trichloroacetic acid - a 3% solution is applied pointwise once a day to the nodules for 30 - 40 minutes, after which it is washed off;
Salicylic acid – 3% solution is applied 2 times a day to the nodules without rinsing off;
Imiquimod (Aldara) – cream is applied to the nodules pointwise 3 times a day;
Podophyllotoxin (Vartek, Condilin) - cream is applied pointwise to the nodules 2 times a day;
Fluorouracil ointment - applied to the nodules 2 - 3 times a day;
Oxolinic ointment - applied pointwise to the nodules 2 - 3 times a day in a thick layer;
Chlorophyllipt - the solution is applied pointwise to the nodules 2 - 3 times a day;
Benzoyl peroxide (Baziron AS, Ekloran, Indoxyl, Effezel, etc.) - ointments and creams are applied pointwise to the nodules in a thick layer 2 times a day;
Interferons (Infagel, Acyclovir) - ointments and creams are applied to the nodules 2 - 3 times a day.

The duration of use of any of the above drugs is determined by the rate of disappearance of molluscum contagiosum nodules. In general, as observations of dermatologists show, for complete removal nodules with any specified remedy must be continuously applied for 3 to 12 weeks. All of the above remedies have comparable effectiveness, so you can choose any drug that, for some subjective reason, you like more than others. However, dermatologists recommend trying Oxolinic ointment, Fluorouracil ointment, or benzoyl peroxide products first, as they are the safest.

Molluscum contagiosum: removal of papules by curettage, laser, Surgitron, liquid nitrogen (advice from a dermatologist) - video

Molluscum contagiosum, treatment with antiviral drugs and immunomodulators: Acyclovir, Isoprinosine, Viferon, Allomedine, Betadine, Oxolinic ointment, iodine - video

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children is carried out using the same methods as in adults, and in compliance with the general principles of therapy. That is optimal treatment Molluscum contagiosum in children means no treatment and simply waiting for the body itself to suppress the activity of the virus, and all the nodules simply disappear without a trace. But if your child scratches the nodules or they cause him discomfort, then it is recommended to try removing them at home with various ointments and solutions containing ingredients to eliminate warts (for example, salicylic acid, tretinoin, cantharidin or benzoyl peroxide). These solutions are applied pointwise to the nodules of molluscum contagiosum 1 - 2 times a day until they disappear.

Parents report the effectiveness of Oxolinic ointment for removing molluscum nodules in children, so you can use this recommendation. So, parents recommend applying a thick layer of ointment to the nodules 1-2 times a day until they disappear completely. In this case, at first, under the influence of the ointment, the nodules may turn red and become inflamed, but there is no need to be afraid of this, since after 1 - 2 days the formations will crust over and begin to dry out.

If a decision is made to remove nodules from a child using any surgical method, then this should be done only with the use of adequate anesthesia. It best anesthetizes the skin and, accordingly, is optimally suited for use as an anesthetic for surgical removal Molluscum contagiosum nodules EMLA cream 5% produced by AstraZeneka, Sweden. For adequate pain relief, the cream is applied to the skin in the area where the nodules are localized, covered with the occlusive film that comes with the drug, and left for 50–60 minutes. After an hour, the film is removed, the remaining cream is removed with a sterile cotton swab, and only after that an operation is performed to remove the nodules of molluscum contagiosum.

When using EMLA cream, it is achieved good level pain relief, as a result of which the child does not feel pain and, accordingly, does not receive additional stress.

Molluscum contagiosum: causes, treatment, diagnosis and prevention. Relieving itching, inflammation and redness - video

Treatment at home

The best way to treat molluscum contagiosum at home is either pharmaceutical drugs or various folk remedies made independently from medicinal herbs, which are applied to the nodules and contribute to their disappearance.

Thus, the most effective among traditional methods for treating molluscum contagiosum at home are the following:

Garlic lotions. Fresh garlic cloves are crushed to a paste, butter is added in a ratio of 1:1 (by volume) and mixed well. The finished composition is applied pointwise to the nodules in a thick layer, fixed with a plaster or bandage and the lotion is replaced with a fresh one 2 - 3 times a day. Such applications are applied to the nodules of molluscum contagiosum until they completely disappear.
Garlic juice. Garlic cloves are passed through a meat grinder, the prepared pulp is placed on cheesecloth and the juice is squeezed out. Fresh garlic juice Wipe the nodules 5-6 times a day until they disappear completely.
Infusion of succession. Pour two tablespoons of dry herb into 250 ml of boiling water (one glass), bring the water to a boil again, remove from heat and leave for an hour in a warm place. With the prepared infusion, wipe the area of skin where the nodules of molluscum contagiosum are localized 3-4 times a day until the formations disappear.
Tincture of calendula. A pharmaceutical alcohol tincture of calendula is used to wipe the skin areas covered with nodules of molluscum contagiosum 3-4 times a day until the formations completely disappear.
Bird cherry juice. Fresh leaves The bird cherry is washed with water and passed through a meat grinder. The resulting pulp is spread on cheesecloth and the juice is squeezed out of the leaves. The juice of bird cherry leaves is mixed with butter in a volume ratio of 1:1 and the resulting ointment is applied to the nodules overnight.

It is recommended to prepare all folk remedies immediately before use and not store longer than 1 - 2 days, since maximum freshness of the compositions ensures higher effectiveness of treatment.

Molluscum contagiosum - treatment with folk remedies: iodine, celandine, fucorcin, tar, calendula tincture - video

Molluscum contagiosum is a fairly common viral disease skin, occurring mainly in childhood (usually preschool) age. The causative agent of molluscum contagiosum is the molluscum contagiosum virus, which is pathogenic exclusively for human body and has a certain resemblance to the smallpox virus.

Quite often, patients with this dermatological disease, due to abrasion or complete absence symptoms do not go to the doctor, as a result of which molluscum contagiosum becomes chronic.

What it is?

Molluscum contagiosum is infection, caused by the smallpox virus, which affects the skin, sometimes mucous membranes. Typical manifestations of the rash are erythematous, dense, shiny nodules. Treatment of the disease is mandatory, provided that the disease does not pose a threat to human life and health.

How can you get infected?

Molluscum contagiosum is most often transmitted through contact and household contact; it can lead to outbreaks in children's groups and damage to family members. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with a sick person, as well as through contaminated household items, clothing, water in a pool or natural reservoirs, and toys.

In the environment, the virus is quite stable and can survive in the dust of residential premises and gyms, infecting more and more people. In adults, the disease can occur after tattooing if the pathogen remains on the instruments used by the artist.

Penetration of the pathogen occurs through microdamage to the skin. Therefore, the risk of infection increases if there is dermatological diseases with itching, dryness or weeping of the skin, disruption of the integrity of the epidermis. In women, the molluscum contagiosum virus often penetrates through the mucous membrane of the genital organs and the skin of the perineum. Moreover, to transmit the infection from a partner, sexual intercourse itself is not required; only contact with the affected skin areas is necessary. Therefore, although infection with molluscum contagiosum in adults is often associated with sexual contact, it is incorrect to classify it as a true STD.

Pathogen

The virus affects only humans, is not transmitted by animals and is close to smallpox viruses. There are 4 types of molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV-1, MCV-2, MCV-3, MCV-4). Of these, MCV-1 is the most common, while MCV-2 usually appears in adults and is often sexually transmitted. Can also be transmitted through water (eg swimming pool). Inside the formation there is a liquid through which it is transported and multiplies.

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus (molluscum contagiosum virus), which is part of the poxvirus group. This virus spreads from person to person through direct contact and is most common in children. In addition, it can be infected through sexual intercourse; people with impaired immune system functioning are most susceptible to the virus. Molluscum contagiosum can spread by scratching or rubbing the affected skin.

Skin lesions of molluscum contagiosum are sometimes confused with lesions caused by the acrochordona virus.

Molluscum contagiosum during pregnancy

During pregnancy, against the background of a natural decrease in immunity, activation of an existing infection or a fresh infection with molluscum contagiosum may occur. The clinical picture has no peculiarities. The molluscum contagiosum virus does not pose a danger to the fetus, but during childbirth and subsequent contact with the mother's skin, the child can become infected.

Treatment must be carried out immediately after detection of the disease, taking into account contraindications for some procedures. Shortly before birth, a repeat examination is carried out even in the absence of complaints. This is necessary to identify possible recurrent rashes on the genitals and areas of the skin that are inaccessible for self-examination.

Symptoms and photos

Most often, papules, which are direct signs of molluscum contagiosum (see photo), are localized in children on the face, torso and limbs, in adults - in the genital area, on the stomach and inner thighs.

Most often papules:

small size (from 2 to 5 mm in diameter);
do not cause pain, but are sometimes accompanied by itching;
have a dimple in the center;
have a core of white, waxy material;
At first they are dense, dome-shaped, flesh-colored, and become softer over time.

Molluscum contagiosum usually goes away spontaneously in people with normal immune systems after several months or years. In people with AIDS or other diseases that affect the immune system, damage associated with exposure to molluscum contagiosum may be more extensive.

Diagnostics

In the classic form, the diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is easy to make. Taken into account: childhood, the presence of children with molluscum in the team, multiple spherical formations on the skin with an umbilical depression.

Difficulties in diagnosis rarely arise with atypical forms. But even with atypical species Dermatoscopy clearly shows umbilical-shaped depressions in the center of the molluscan papules.

Differential diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is carried out with the following diseases:

pyoderma (ulcers on the skin),
chickenpox (chickenpox),
filamentous papillomas (read detailed article about filamentous papillomas),
vulgar warts (read about vulgar warts),
genital warts on the genitals (read about genital warts),
milia.

In difficult cases, the doctor resorts to squeezing the papule with tweezers. If crumbly masses are squeezed out of the papule, with a 99% probability it is molluscum contagiosum.

In even rarer cases, they resort to diagnosis under a microscope. To do this, the crumb-like masses are sent to the laboratory, where a picture corresponding to this disease. In this case, eosinophilic inclusions are found in the cytoplasm of the cells.

Could there be complications?

The development of molluscum contagiosum in the normal course does not lead to the formation of any problems over time, and often the elements can gradually disappear from the skin without leaving any traces on it. This can happen even without treatment for about three to four years.

Some treatments may cause scarring on the skin.
Sometimes the infection can reactivate, in which case a larger area of skin is affected.
In the presence of severely weakened immunity, the development of molluscum contagiosum can take a generalized and pronounced form.

When the elements appear abundantly on the face and body, or become large in size and can change in appearance, treatment becomes difficult. In such cases, active therapy with drugs such as local impact, and to stimulate systemic immunity.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum

Currently, molluscum contagiosum in women, unless the nodules are localized on the eyelids or in the genital area, is recommended not to be treated at all, since after 3 to 18 months the immune system will be able to suppress the activity of the orthopoxvirus, and all formations will disappear on their own, leaving no traces on the skin any traces (scars, scars, etc.).

The fact is that immunity to the molluscum contagiosum virus is developed, but this happens slowly, so the body needs not a week to heal itself from the infection, as in the case of ARVI, but several months or even up to 2 - 5 years. And if you remove the nodules of molluscum contagiosum before they disappear on their own, then, firstly, you can leave scars on the skin, and secondly, this increases the risk of their reappearance, and in even larger quantities, since the virus is still active. Therefore, given that self-healing always occurs, and it is only a matter of time, doctors recommend not treating molluscum contagiosum by removing the nodules, but simply waiting a little until they disappear on their own.

Removal of molluscum contagiosum

If a person wants to remove the nodules, then this is done. Moreover, the reason for such a desire, as a rule, is aesthetic considerations. For the removal of molluscum contagiosum nodules, the following surgical methods have been officially approved by the Ministries of Health of the CIS countries:

Cryodestruction (destruction of nodules with liquid nitrogen);
Curettage (scraping out nodules with a curette or Volkmann spoon);
Laser destruction (destruction of nodules with CO2 laser);
Electrocoagulation (destruction of nodules by electric current - “cauterization”);
Husking (removing the core of nodules with thin tweezers).

In practice, in addition to these officially approved methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, other methods are used. These methods involve exposing the nodules of molluscum contagiosum to various chemicals in ointments and solutions that can destroy the structure of the formations. Thus, currently, ointments and solutions containing tretinoin, cantharidin, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, imiquimod, podophyllotoxin, chlorophyllipt, fluorouracil, oxolin, benzoyl peroxide, as well as interferons alpha-2a and alpha 2b are used to remove nodules.

Such chemical methods for removing shellfish cannot be called traditional methods, since they involve the use medicines, as a result of which they are considered to be unofficial, practice-tested methods, but not approved by the Ministries of Health. Since these methods, according to reviews from doctors and patients, are quite effective and less traumatic compared to surgical methods for removing molluscum contagiosum nodules, we will also consider them in the subsection below.

Folk remedies

The most effective means for treating the disease in question from the category of “traditional medicine”:

Prepare a concentrated solution of potassium permanganate - it should be dark purple. It is soaked in cotton swab and apply (cauterize) to the papule. Please note that after using potassium permanganate, burns may form on the skin - be extremely careful, treat the papule specifically, acting on it point by point.
The string grass is crushed and a decoction is made - 300 ml of water per 100 grams of raw material, cook for 3 minutes. Then the broth should brew for 60-90 minutes. Only after this can you strain it through a strainer or several layers of gauze. A decoction of the string is used as a lotion and for wiping off papules. There are no restrictions on the number of procedures per day.
Grind a few cloves of garlic (in a blender or on a fine grater), add 30-50 g to them butter(soft) and mix everything thoroughly until a paste-like mixture is obtained. The product must be applied to the affected areas of the skin 2 times a day. Please note that garlic can cause burning and even irritation on healthy areas of the skin, so try to use this product with extreme caution.

You can also use some plants that will help get rid of papules in a short time. For example, juice from bird cherry leaves copes well with this task (it is squeezed out and stored in a cool, dark place) - a cotton pad is moistened in it and the skin is treated after removing the nodules. Moreover, this remedy can be used for a long period, until all wounds are completely healed.

Prevention

Preventive actions:

examination of children in schools and kindergartens in order to prevent the spread of molluscum contagiosum;
early detection of the disease;
isolation of the patient from the team during treatment;
regular wet cleaning of premises to eliminate dust containing viral particles;
examination of co-residents and team members for the presence of papules;
daily change of underwear;
strictly personal use personal hygiene items;
selectivity when choosing sexual partners;
mandatory shower after visiting the bathhouse, sauna, swimming in the pool and after sexual intercourse;
patients are contraindicated from visiting massage rooms, swimming pools, saunas for the period of treatment;
It is forbidden to comb papules; after accidental injury, treat the damage with an antiseptic;
if papules are localized on the face, do not use harsh scrubs; men should be careful when shaving;
isolation of the patient and the objects he uses within the family;
strengthening the immune system (hardening, moderate physical exercise, walks on fresh air, swimming).

In the vast majority of cases, with molluscum contagiosum, the prognosis is favorable. The disease has virtually no complications and is easy to treat. The prognosis is significantly aggravated by the state of immunodeficiency, against which generalized forms of the disease develop with large formations that cannot be treated.

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease of viral origin that most often affects people with weakened immune systems. The disease makes itself felt 2 weeks after infection. In rare cases, the incubation period is prolonged, and the first signs appear after months. Main symptom Molluscum contagiosum is the formation of dome-shaped nodules on human skin.

People can become infected with the disease, regardless of age and gender, but most often molluscum contagiosum is diagnosed in adolescence. In children and adolescents, rashes most often occur on the face; in adults, molluscum contagiosum is localized in the groin area. The threat is posed by an infected person and household items with which the patient has been in contact.

Molluscum contagiosum is not dangerous. The disease does not cause major problems, but sometimes lasts 6 months. As a rule, the nodules disappear on their own. If the patient wishes, it is possible to remove the molluscum contagiosum.

Molluscum contagiosum in children

Children under 10 years of age are most often affected. During this period, the child’s interaction with the outside world begins.

Molluscum contagiosum in children occurs anywhere:

hands;
legs;
face;
breast;
stomach;
back;
buttocks.

Doctors believe that common ways a child can become infected with the virus are:

Official medicine recognizes the only way to treat molluscum contagiosum in children - removal of the formations. Along with this, local drug therapy and immunostimulating drugs are prescribed.

The fewer formations are removed, the easier the procedure is tolerated by the child. Sometimes they resort to general anesthesia. As a rule, removal of contagious nodules is difficult for children. Another unpleasant consequence of removing shellfish is scars: marks often remain in place of the previous rash.

Molluscum contagiosum in adult women and men

For adults, the sexual route of infection is typical.

For this reason, molluscum contagiosum in adults most often affects the skin of areas adjacent to the genitals:

external genitalia;
pubis;
hypogastrium;
inner thighs.

For effective treatment, it is necessary to correct the disease that led to a decrease in immunity and activation of the virus:

diabetes;
dysbacteriosis;
drugs that suppress the immune system.

As a rule, molluscum contagiosum does not cause serious concern to patients. Papules are usually removed for cosmetic purposes. In addition, the dermatologist prescribes antiviral ointments or treatment of nodules with immunomodulators, and also recommends tetracycline antibiotics.

Treatment of pregnant women with molluscum contagiosum is different: avoiding the use of antiviral and immune drugs, as well as cauterizing agents such as super celandine. The only treatment method for pregnant women is removal of molluscum papules.

Removal skin growths possible using:

laser; liquid nitrogen;
radio wave radiation.

Molluscum contagiosum in women with weak immune systems develops much faster than in other patients, so you need to visit an immunologist who will help you choose the right immunostimulating drugs.

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum does not develop immediately, but after at least 2 weeks from the moment of infection.

Common symptoms of the disease include:

papular rash on the skin (less often on mucous membranes);
redness and swelling of the affected area (with suppuration).

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum do not include pain. A typical symptom is the formation of nodules (papules). Nodules are characterized by the following features:

color close to skin color;
painless on palpation;
shaped like a dome;
dense (at the beginning of the disease) consistency.

In addition, the white core is determined visually or by magnification. The nodules are localized separately, but sometimes merge to form nodes. Each papule contains liquid containing viruses.

Which doctors should I contact if I have molluscum contagiosum?

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum begins with complete isolation of the patient. In addition, attention is paid to maintaining personal hygiene rules both before and after recovery.

It will take an initially healthy body 6 months to overcome the symptoms of the virus, and more often dermatologists rely on independent recovery without the use of drugs.

To speed up the process, depending on the stage of the disease, the severity of symptoms, as well as the patient’s immunity status, the doctor chooses a method of treating molluscum contagiosum:

Removal of molluscum contagiosum

A popular method for removing molluscum contagiosum is cryotherapy, which is done every 2-3 weeks until the rash is completely removed. Squeezing out the nodules using tweezers, followed by scraping off the remaining lesions, is also used. The resulting wounds are treated with phenol, 10% iodine solution or silver nitrogen.

Also common today laser method removal of molluscum contagiosum, in which healing occurs faster and without subsequent scars.

After removal, the affected skin is lubricated with iodine once a day for 4 days. Sometimes the rashes appear again, then the removal procedure is repeated. Antiviral external drugs help prevent relapses:

Viferon ointment;
Cycloferon liniment;
acyclovir ointment.

And also immunomodulators:

imiquimod cream;
interferon alpha-2a in the form of an ointment;
meglumine acridone acetate in the form of liniment.

Since transmission of molluscum contagiosum is possible in domestic conditions, it is necessary to observe the rules of personal hygiene and boil underwear and bed linen, as well as home cleaning using disinfectants.

Treatment of molluscum contagiosum at home

Application folk remedies For the treatment of molluscum contagiosum, you must agree with your doctor.

Celandine juice

To treat molluscum contagiosum, it is recommended to use celandine juice, which helps get rid of the characteristic rashes. However, celandine juice is a toxic substance - if used ineptly, treatment will bring additional suffering to the patient. To prevent this from happening, it is worth remembering the following three rules:

you need to make sure that the patient does not have allergies;
apply celandine juice to a specific papule;
do the procedure with gloves.

Prepare celandine juice yourself or purchase it alcohol tincture at the pharmacy.

Potassium permangantsovka

Prepare a concentrated solution of potassium permanganate until it turns dark purple. Moisten a cotton swab and apply (cauterize) it to the papule. Please note that after using potassium permanganate, burns sometimes appear on the skin - be careful, treat the papule specifically, acting on it pointwise.

Grass succession

The grass is crushed and a decoction is made - for 100 grams of raw material, 300 ml of water, cook for 3 minutes. Then the broth is infused for 60-90 minutes. After this, strain. A decoction of the string is used as a lotion and for wiping off papules. There are no restrictions on the number of procedures per day.

Juice from bird cherry leaves

Moisten a cotton pad with the juice and treat the skin after removing the nodules. Moreover, you can use this remedy for a long period, until 100% of the wounds are completely healed.

Garlic

Grind the garlic cloves, add 30-50 grams of butter (soft) to them and mix thoroughly until a paste-like mixture is obtained. Apply the product to affected areas of the skin 2 times a day. Please note that garlic sometimes causes burning and even irritation on healthy areas of the skin, so try to use this product with extreme caution.

Collection of medicinal plants

It includes:

yarrow herb;
calendula flowers;
juniper berries;
Birch buds;
eucalyptus leaves;
pine buds.

To prepare the mixture, take 3 tablespoons of each component and mix. Now take a tablespoon of the prepared mixture, pour 300 ml of boiling water and leave for 20-30 minutes. Use a decoction herbal collection for wiping rashes and taking 100 ml orally in the morning and evening.

Causes of molluscum contagiosum

Weakened immunity and exposure to unfavorable factors activate the development of molluscum contagiosum. The disease is more common in underdeveloped countries with hot climates. There is also a predisposition to the disease in people with atopic dermatitis or eczema.

Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum

Diagnosis of molluscum contagiosum is based on the study of the characteristic clinical picture. However, if doubt arises, a laboratory examination of the contents of the nodule is prescribed.

Differential diagnosis

The disease must be differentiated from the following diseases:

warts;
rash with lichen planus;
skin tumors of a benign or malignant nature.

Classification of molluscum contagiosum

According to the classification of molluscum contagiosum virus, there are 4 types MCV-1,2,3,4, of which the first two are common. MCV1 and MCV2 are more common in adults. Transmission, transfer and reproduction occurs due to fluid in neoplasms. The virus can persist even in household dust, which is why epidemics of the disease are common in kindergartens and junior grades (permanent groups).

Prognosis and prevention of molluscum contagiosum

As a rule, the prognosis for infection with molluscum contagiosum is favorable, with the exception of patients with immunodeficiency conditions. Prevention consists of maintaining personal hygiene, both in public places, and at home. It is required that each family member have a personal washcloth and other bath accessories.

When molluscum contagiosum is diagnosed in children, infected children are isolated and quarantined for the incubation period of the virus with a daily preventive examination of the children's team and staff.

Questions and answers on the topic "Mollus contagiosum"

Question:Hello, my 2-year-old child has a mollusk, we don’t know exactly how to treat it and how can you please tell me, almost his whole hand is covered in mollusks.

Answer: Therapy is prescribed only by the attending physician after examination and necessary examinations. Contact a dermatologist in person.

Question:There is a statement that the body itself must get over the disease and cope with this disease, otherwise it may appear again and again!? Thank you!

Answer: Hello. Yes, as a rule, molluscum contagiosum goes away on its own.

Question:Hello. The child has warts on his face. We went to the doctor and said that it was molluscum contagiosum and the dermatologist suggested removing it with tweezers, saying that it was dangerous. It is written on the Internet that in some countries this is not considered a disease. Anesthesia is administered during removal. Please tell me whether it is necessary to remove and whether molluscum contagiosum is so dangerous - I don’t want to put my child under anesthesia in vain.

Answer: Hello. Molluscum contagiosum is not dangerous, and these formations do not need to be removed; as a rule, they go away on their own after some time. Nose for cosmetic purposes Removal is recommended to prevent further spread. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia.

Question:Hello. About 1.2 months ago, my daughter had a small pimple on her knee that looked like a wen. We went to the local clinic to see a surgeon, she diagnosed me with molluscum contagiosum. We went to a dermatologist-venereologist, she questioned the same diagnosis. Her recommendations were to cauterize the pimple with salicylic alcohol and fucarcin 3 times a day for 2 weeks. After one day of these procedures (my daughter cried), this pimple got a little bigger, I stopped alcohol and fucarcin. I smeared it with brilliant green 3 times a day for 4 days and it decreased in size again. Now a pimple has appeared on my butt, but nowhere else. Tell me, should we continue treatment with brilliant green or are there more effective methods?

Answer: Hello. Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection. There are two principal approaches to the treatment of molluscum contagiosum. The first is to do nothing, and after some time (a few months) they may go away on their own. The second is to remove the clam. I am more inclined to the second, since this disease tends to spread throughout the child’s skin, appearing in new places. Although in itself it does not cause suffering or greater harm to health.

Question:Hello. My daughter is 3 years old. 3-4 months ago small pimples appeared on my chin and under my upper lip. The dermatologist said it was molluscum contagiosum. He told me to open the papule at home and then smear it with iodine. But I can not. This is very painful, the child is screaming. Please tell me, is it possible not to touch them? And is it possible to go to kindergarten like this? Will vitamins and antivirals somehow help change the situation?

Answer: Hello. Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious disease, so it is necessary to treat it so that the viral process does not spread. You wrote correctly that it needs to be opened and processed. Before opening, apply topical anesthesia for 10 minutes, for example, Emla cream, which is sold at the pharmacy. The procedure will be painless. The main thing is that the crumbly mass does not get on the skin. As a preventative measure, you can give your child Viferon suppositories. Temporarily use antibacterial soap on your hands.

Question:Hello. My child has several pimples on his neck. At first I thought it was moles, but the dermatologist diagnosed it as molluscum contagiosum. I sent it to a skin and venous dispensary for removal with tweezers, but the child is 6 years old and we are afraid of hurting him. Tell me if there are other methods of treatment and possible reasons his appearance?

Answer: Hello. Molluscum contagiosum is a viral disease. The rashes are removed mechanically, just as the dermatologist said. In parallel, antiviral and immunocorrective therapy is prescribed.