General & Pediatric Dermatology
Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment in Tampa, FL
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin condition caused by a poxvirus, most often seen in children but affecting all ages. The small, dome-shaped bumps can spread easily and persist for months without treatment. Dr. Sergay offers effective, personalized treatment options — always discussing the pros and cons with patients and families.
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Dr. Sergay's Approach
What Is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a harmless poxvirus (MCV). It produces small, round, dome-shaped bumps with a characteristic central dimple (umbilication). They are flesh-colored, pink, or pearly white and commonly appear on the trunk, arms, legs, and face in children. In adults, molluscum is often sexually transmitted and appears in the groin area.
The virus spreads by direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. While generally harmless, molluscum can spread extensively and persist for months to years without treatment. Approximately 10% of patients develop surrounding eczema-like inflammation (molluscum dermatitis), which can cause itching and further spread.
Dr. Sergay will discuss the pros and cons of each treatment approach and customize the management plan to fit your needs — taking into account the patient's age, lesion location, number, and tolerance.
Children & Adults
All ages treated
Customized Plans
Pros & cons always discussed
Know What You're Dealing With
Types & Presentations of Molluscum
Molluscum Contagiosum
Small, round, dome-shaped bumps with a characteristic central dimple (umbilication). They are flesh-colored, pink, or pearly white. Commonly appear on the trunk, arms, legs, and face in children. Typically 2–5mm in diameter.
- Dome-shaped with central dimple
- Flesh-colored or pearly white
- Trunk, arms & face in children
- 2–5mm in diameter
Molluscum with Dermatitis
Approximately 10% of patients with molluscum develop surrounding eczema-like inflammation (molluscum dermatitis). This itching can cause scratching and further spread of the virus. Dr. Sergay evaluates and treats both the molluscum and associated skin inflammation simultaneously.
- Itchy, inflamed surrounding skin
- ~10% of molluscum cases
- Can cause further spread
- Requires dual treatment approach
Molluscum in Adults (Genital)
In adults, molluscum contagiosum is often sexually transmitted and appears on the inner thighs, genitals, and lower abdomen. It can also spread through non-sexual skin contact. Adults with weakened immune systems may develop extensive molluscum that is more difficult to treat.
- Often sexually transmitted in adults
- Inner thighs & genital area
- Can be extensive in immunocompromised
- All adults treated
Molluscum Near the Eyes
Molluscum near the eyelids requires special attention. Viral particles can enter the eye and cause conjunctivitis (eye inflammation). Dr. Sergay will recommend the safest treatment approach for lesions in this sensitive area.
- Can cause conjunctivitis
- Eyelid & periocular area
- Requires careful treatment
- Prompt evaluation recommended
Effective Options
How Dr. Sergay Treats Molluscum
Dr. Sergay will always discuss the pros and cons of each method and customize the plan to fit your age, lesion location, and goals.
Cantharidin
A painless, in-office application of a blister-inducing solution. Applied by Dr. Sergay, covered, and washed off at home hours later. The resulting blister lifts the molluscum bump from the skin. Especially effective and well-tolerated for children — the application itself is completely painless.
Topical Destructive Agents
Prescription-strength topical agents such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or other solutions are applied to gradually destroy molluscum tissue over multiple sessions. Suitable for patients who need repeated home or in-office applications.
Curettage
Surgical scraping (curettage) physically removes molluscum bumps. Used when rapid clearance is needed or when other treatments haven't worked. Performed under local anesthesia. Particularly effective for a smaller number of larger lesions.
Watchful Waiting
For molluscum in young children with few lesions, watchful waiting may be appropriate since the immune system often clears the virus on its own within 6–18 months. Dr. Sergay will discuss whether active treatment or observation is the best strategy for your child's specific situation.
6–18mo
May self-resolve in healthy children
1–3
Sessions typically needed for clearance
10%
Develop molluscum dermatitis
All Ages
Children & adults treated
For Parents
Managing Molluscum in Children
Molluscum is extremely common in school-age children and is not a sign of poor hygiene. Here's what parents should know about managing it at home and preventing spread.
Prevent Spread at Home
- Don't share towels, washcloths, or clothing
- Cover molluscum bumps with a bandage or clothing
- Encourage your child not to scratch or pick
- Wash hands frequently, especially after touching lesions
Prevent Spread at School & Activities
- Swimming is generally fine — cover lesions if possible
- Avoid sharing sports equipment that touches skin
- Children don't need to be kept home from school
- Avoid contact sports if lesions are in exposed areas
Managing Your Child's Treatment
- Cantharidin is a painless, popular option for young children
- Discuss all options with Dr. Sergay before deciding
- Bring your child's favorite distraction to appointments
- Multiple sessions may be needed — consistency is key
When to Come In
- Lesions growing rapidly in number or size
- Molluscum spreading to eyelids or causing eye irritation
- Itchy rash developing around the bumps (molluscum dermatitis)
- Lesions in the genital area or on the face
Reassurance for parents: Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a common virus — not by poor hygiene. It is extremely common in school-age children and does not reflect on your child's cleanliness or health. Most immunologically healthy children will eventually clear the virus on their own, but treatment speeds up resolution and prevents further spread.
Common Questions
Molluscum Contagiosum FAQ
Get Them Gone
Ready to Clear Molluscum?
Whether it's spreading molluscum on your child or a persistent case in an adult — Dr. Sergay will find the right treatment plan. Painless options available for young children.