How is Molluscum Contagiosum Treated?
Your health care provider can treat molluscum contagiosum in the following ways: • The bumps will usually disappear on their own after a few weeks or months. No scarring should occur. If the lesions are in an uncomfortable area or you are concerned about them there are several options to have them removed. • Mechanical: This includes cutting or freezing the bumps off. The County STD clinic treats molluscum by freezing the bumps with liquid nitrogen. This will reduce the time it takes to get rid of them, and may reduce the risk of infecting other people, but new bumps may form until the virus infection goes away by itself after several months. • Chemical: A medical provider may use a chemical (such as trichloroacetic acid) to dissolve the bumps. • Immune Therapy: A newer medication called imiquimod may be applied to molluscum contagiosum bumps. The medicine works by helping the body’s immune system to heal the bumps. • HIV-infected individuals should discuss treatment options with their
