What Is Molluscum Contagiosum?

By james

Article Sources

Medical Expert

More About Us

Our skin is our first barrier of defense against disease. It is effective at this task, helping to keep out pathogens that might do us harm. This does not mean that our skin is invincible, however, and it is prone to developing problems itself. There are numerous different medical conditions that can have a negative impact on our skin.

They can cause rashes, sores, and other blemishes that can be unsightly, uncomfortable, painful, and even dangerous. Most are quite harmless, however, and will do us no harm, even if they do look unpleasant. One example of such a medical condition is molluscum contagiosum.

1. Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a type of viral infection that can affect people of all ages, but is most commonly found in children. When it does affect adults, they tend to be people that have a weakened immune system. It is also a fairly common condition, but is also usually only mild.

The condition can be treated but this can be very uncomfortable, so treatment is avoided in most cases. The condition is very contagious and is spread from person to person, and also from contact with surfaces and objects that are contaminated. Potentially severe complications will arise in just a small number of cases.