Molluscum and Warts
Warts and molluscum contagiosum are common viral infections of the skin. Warts are caused by strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV), and molluscum contagiosum are a result of a pox virus infection.
Molluscum look like small, skin colored, smooth dome shaped bumps. Warts are rough, thick flesh colored bumps on the skin. When looked at closely, they often have multiple small black dots on the surface.
Molluscum usually clear on their own, but sometimes need treatment. Warts often need at least one treatment with a topical agent or they need to be frozen.
Molluscum and warts can be spread by scratching, rubbing, skin to skin contact with others, or touching an infected item, such as a door handle, toys, or clothing.
Those Affected
Children from ages 1 to 5 are commonly infected with molluscum. They usually appear on the face, neck, arms, and hands. Children with eczema may be more severely affected by molluscum.
Warts can affect people of any age. There are over 100 types of the human papilloma virus that cause them and about 10% of the general population have them. Those with HIV common organ transplants, or on chemotherapy have a higher incidence of warts because of their decreased immune system.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, many cases of molluscum resolve on their own as the child’s immune system develops. For difficult to treat ones, freezing or a topical treatment, such as imiquimod, may be indicated.
Warts are often a little more difficult to treat. Over-the-counter removers, such a salicylic acid, may help weaken the virus and allow the skin to clear the infection on its own. Over-the-counter freezing medications are available but have not been found to be very effective, especially in comparison to medical grade freezing with nitrogen. Prescription topical creams, such as imiquimod, are highly effective. For very difficult to treat lesions, surgical removal can help the patient achieve clearance.