Molluscum contagiosum! It sounds like an incantation from Harry Potter, and as the name suggests, this is a highly contagious skin condition. If you haven’t been drinking your pepperup potion lately, the virus that causes this unsightly outbreak will create hundreds of tiny, waxy, flesh colored bumps with a lovely dimpled center on your skin. Scratching and touching the bumps releases the virus, accelerating the spread to other areas of the body and to other people.

While this problem commonly affects children, it is also easily passed to adults where it can spread via sexual contact to the vagina, penis, inner thighs, face, neck, small of the back, and armpits. Those with weak immune systems are subject to having hundreds of bumps appear in a two to four inch square area.

While this type of infection will often resolve itself over time, there are several options available to treat more persistent cases. Some of these include the following, but you will have to get into Hogwarts to learn the corresponding incantations!:

• Topical eradication—Blistering agents and acids may be employed to eliminate the bumps.
• Freezing—Liquid nitrogen is applied to the bumps with a tiny dappling device.
• Surgical removal—A device called a curette may be utilized to scrape off the growths.
• Laser therapy—Burning the bumps off with a laser is also a very effective method.

This infection in adults typically takes a long time to heal, and each case is different, so it is important to seek the advice of a skin care professional for the best care. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology has been treating patients for hair, skin, and nail problems for over 30 years, and has the extensive background needed to help address a variety of dermatological issues. Dr. Vaillant has successfully treated acne, eczema, dandruff, hair loss, psoriasis, and nail fungus. If you are looking for an amiable, highly skilled dermatologist, call our office in Old Bridge, NJ at (732) 679-0222 and make an appointment.