Molluscum contagiosum is a skin condition that results in small, wart-like growths on the skin.
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a viral infection and is highly contagious, especially among children. The virus that causes molluscum contagiosum is a type of poxvirus and is easily spread through close physical contact or by sharing contaminated objects such as towels or clothing.
The most apparent symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the appearance of small, wart-like growths on the skin. These growths, or papules, can range in size from a pinhead to a pencil eraser and are usually painless. They may appear as a single growth or cluster of several growths and can be found on any body part. In addition to the growths, some people with molluscum contagiosum may experience itching or redness in the affected area.
