Molluscum contagiosum

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Molluscum, microscopic appearance	Molluscum contagiosum - close-up	Molluscum contagiosum - close-up of the chest	Molluscum contagiosum on the face
Molluscum on the chest

The skin lesion commonly has the following qualities:

• Small (2 - 5 millimeter diameter)
• Dimple in center
• 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

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.

Review Date: 10/31/2005
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.