Molluscum contagiosum (water warts)
A molluscum contagiosum is a common infection that causes spots on the skin of children and adults. These lesions are sometimes called water warts. They are not dangerous but they can be annoying. This page tells you what causes it and what you can do about it.
Cause
The spots are caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. This virus is spread by intensive skin-to-skin contact, for example, during sexual contact. They are common in children but also in adults who have not previously had the virus or have a weakened immune system. It usually takes 2 to 7 weeks for the spots to appear. Sometimes it can take longer, up to 6 months.
Symptoms
The spots are smooth and dome-shaped and often look translucent or white. They often have a small dimple in the centre. In adults, they mostly appear on the lower body, near the genitals. Do not squeeze the spots. If you do, the white fluid that emerges is highly infectious. It can also cause a skin infection.
What I can do
Molluscum contagiosum is not dangerous and often disappears on its own without scarring. If you don't touch it, it usually doesn't last longer than 2 months. If you have a lot of spots, it can take longer for them all to disappear. They can also return spontaneously as the virus remains in the skin. Sometimes it is necessary to treat the spots:
- Apply a cream or solution containing podophyllin (Wartecz®, Condylinez®). Do this on 3 consecutive days a week for up to 5 weeks.
- Dot the spots (1-3 times daily) with a tincture of vitamin A acid 0.05 -0.1%.
- Go to the dermatologist (skin doctor). The dermatologist can freeze the water warts.
If you have spots near your genitals it’s best not to shave until they have all gone. This will prevent further infection.