Hormones 2016

Molluscum contagiosum
They are typically pink or red, although they may have a tiny white or
yellow head in the centre. If this head ruptures (splits), a thick yellowywhite
substance will be released, which is highly infectious.
It’s important not to squeeze the spots, as this will increase the risk of the
infection spreading to other parts of the body.
The spots associated with MC are usually painless, although they can
sometimes be itchy and some people develop areas of red, dry and cracked
skin around them.
Most people will have between 20 and 30 spots, although people with a
weakened immune system often have more. The spots may develop in small
clusters and can be spread across different parts of the body.
Common parts of the body affected by MC include the -
• face,
• neck,
• trunk (torso),
• limbs (NHS, 2014i).
In sexually active adults, the spots usually appear on the groin area,
spreading upwards over the pubic and abdominal (tummy) areas, genitals
and inner thighs.
The spots are usually firm, raised and painless. You may notice that some
of the spots have a tiny grey head in the centre and look pearly. This head
may rupture (split), causing a thick yellowy-white substance to escape. This
substance is highly infectious so you should avoid handling or squeezing
the spots, or shaving the skin in that area, as this can spread the infection to
other parts of the body.
The spots do not usually leave scars, but you may notice that each one leaves
a tiny patch of lighter skin or a small pitted mark (umbrellahealth, 2016b).
How the condition progresses
In many cases, the individual spots will start to crust over and heal within
two months. Some people may experience mild swelling and redness
around each spot as it begins to heal.
The spots do not usually leave scars, but they may leave a small area of
lighter skin or a tiny pitted mark.
As the virus that causes MC can spread to other parts of the body, new spots
may develop as the old ones are healing. This can result in an episode of MC
lasting for quite a long time.
Most cases clear up within around 6–18 months, but the condition can,
occasionally, persist for several years (NHS, 2014i).
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