17 Apr Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum Contagiosum in Columbus, OH
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum, a viral infection of the skin that causes small, painless bumps on the skin. She and her staff provide high-quality care for molluscum contagiosum and other skin conditions to the residents of Columbus and Upper Arlington.
What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that causes small, firm bumps on the skin. The bumps are typically painless and round with a small indentation on the top, ranging in size with the smallest being the size of a pinhead and the largest being the size of a pencil eraser. Most of the cases we see involve children, but we have also treated adults for molluscum contagiosum. Most adults who have the virus also have suppressed immune systems, but not always. Molluscum contagiosum is considered a sexually transmitted infection if it involves the genital area of an adult with a healthy immune system.
Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Benefits
As a viral infection, molluscum contagiosum can be spread through certain activities, such as from person-to-person and when touching objects that have been contaminated with the virus. If you scratch the small bumps caused by molluscum contagiosum, you risk spreading the virus to the surrounding skin. As long as you have visible bumps on your skin, you can pass the virus to others.
What Areas Can Be Treated for Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum can affect the:
- Armpits
- Face
- Genital area and inner thighs (considered sexually transmitted infection)
- Tops of the hands
- Arms
What Can I Expect From Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment?
In some cases, the condition will resolve on its own within one year, but Dr. Hicks-Graham can provide treatments to eliminate the bumps and alleviate symptoms. Many patients have a recurrence of the condition over the next five years. Dr. Hicks-Graham may recommend a course of treatment that involves non-prescription and prescription medications. Some topical applications contain active ingredients that are known to reduce the size of the bumps or create a blister under the bump, which dislodges it from the skin. Prescription creams may be recommended if you are not pregnant.
Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Preparation
You may want to keep a record of when you first noticed the bumps and any symptoms that you are experiencing. Dr. Hicks-Graham will examine the bumps and surrounding skin to properly diagnose molluscum contagiosum. Once she is confident that you have the viral infection, she will explain your treatment options and the anticipated outcomes. She will also advise you about ways to prevent spreading the virus to others until you are fully healed.
Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Recovery
Recovery from molluscum contagiosum can take time, so you should be patient with your body and take measures to avoid spreading the virus to others. Use the medications as prescribed. If you experience an outbreak of molluscum contagiosum bumps or any other changes to your skin, contact us to schedule a follow-up appointment.
How Much Does Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Cost?
Molluscum contagiosum is considered a medical condition, so treatment should be covered by your insurance. You will have some out-of-pocket costs, such as a co-payment, deductible or co-insurance. You can pay for your portion with cash, check, major credit card or CareCredit® financing.
Is Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Right for Me?
Because molluscum contagiosum is a contagious viral infection, you should be evaluated by Dr. Hicks-Graham as soon as you notice the bumps.
Molluscum Contagiosum Consultation
The first step toward proper treatment for molluscum contagiosum is an accurate diagnosis. As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham is an expert in diagnosing and treating the condition. Contact us to schedule a personal consultation and start treatment.If you have small red, firm, itchy bumps on your skin, you may have molluscum contagiosum, a viral infection that can be spread to other people. Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham of Downtown Dermatology is a board-certified dermatologist who will provide you with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options for molluscum contagiosum.