Children with shellfish on the skin – Molluscum Contagiosum

This particular pox virus causes small skin-coloured lumps on the skin only a millimetre or so in diameter, in a problem known as molluscum contagious. The surrounding skin is not reddened or affected in any other way and the lumps appear to contain a cheesey kind of substance.

Fairly common, it is more alarming than serious. The lumps are usually multiple and mostly found on the trunk and thighs. It is potentially contagious through skin touching infected skin, or through sharing towels, swimming pools or baths with other children.

The condition, without any treatment, will usually clear by itself in three to six months, but may also be shortened by some treatment. These include mild cortisone bream or freezing with liquid nitrogen may be considered. Generally speaking though, it’s best to leave well alone to avoid scarring, wait for it to clear by itself and bathe separately from siblings.

And the name? Well, it shows the strange way some of our medical conditions have been named; by observation of the signs, followed by the old-fashioned conversion of the name into Latin!

More information: Molluscum Contagiosum website     

The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Always consult your doctor if you or your child is suffering any medical complaint. Any websites referred to by Australian Family contain information moderated by government and medical institutions or organisations.

This article was first published in Australian Family Magazine, May 2001. Updated July 2009.