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Molluscum contagiosum

Illustration copyright 2002, Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin that causes small pearly or flesh-colored bumps. The bumps may be either clear or red and inflamed and are often indented.

The bumps are most often found on the trunk, face, eyelids, or genital area in temperate climates and on extremities in the tropics. In children, bumps usually appear on the trunk, face, and arms. In sexually active adolescents and young adults, the bumps are usually located in the genital area.

Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC
- Dermatology
Last Updated January 12, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 12, 2007
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