Molluscum contagiosum

Symptoms:

• skin lesion
  • papule or nodule
  • small, 2 to 5 millimeter diameter
  • dimple in center of lesion (umbilicated)
  • initially firm, flesh colored, pearl like, dome shaped
  • later lesions become softer, gray, and may drain
  • central core or plug of white, cheesy or waxy material
  • painless
  • single or multiple (usually multiple)
  • common locations in children: face, trunk, limbs
  • common locations in adults: genitals, abdomen, inner thigh

Signs and tests:

Diagnosis is based on the appearance of the lesion and can be confirmed by a skin biopsy. The health care provider should examine the lesion to rule out other disorders and to determine other underlying disorders.