Molluscum

Symptoms of molluscum are raised, painless spots which may be itchy. According to NHS Choices they may have a small grey head and look pearly. They usually appear within12 weeks of infection and tend to be 2mm-5mm wide. The spots are the only symptom of the virus.

The substance inside the head of the spots is very contagious, so never squeeze them as you could spread the infection to other areas of your body. If you have caught molloscum sexually, the spots are likely to be around the groin, genital area and inner thighs.

The spots will crust over after 6-12 weeks and usually clear up in around 12-18 months.

Molluscum is spread through close physical contact or by sharing something like a towel which is contaminated. It is particularly common in people who have a weakened immune system, for example if you have HIV. It is also more common in people who have lots of sexual partners.

Molluscum can spread through sexual contact - this means any type of sexual activity including sexual intercourse. It is sensible to use a condom during vaginal or anal sex, however molluscum can be passed on despite condom use. This is because it is transferred by close skin contact.

If someone has molluscum they are considered to be contagious until the last spot has completely healed up.

A nurse or doctor can diagnose molluscum by looking at the spots – although if they are uncertain of the diagnosis they can take a biopsy.

The infection usually clears up without treatment in 12-18 months. However, if you have a HIV, it may take longer to clear up. In some cases a doctor or nurse may prescribe treatment to try to clear up molluscum faster, especially if your spots are affecting your quality of life.