Healthwise

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Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum on the chest, with close-up of an indented bump.

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin that causes small pearly or flesh-colored bumps. The bumps may be red and inflamed, and are often indented.

The bumps can appear anywhere on the body that the virus contacts the skin, except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. In sexually active teens and young adults, the bumps are usually located in the genital area.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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