Home > Medical Articles > Articles beginning with M > Molluscum Contagiosum > Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Medical References
Diseases & Conditions
Women's Health
Mental Health
Men's Health
Medical Web Links
MOL Site Map
Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Molluscum Contagiosum
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes smooth, waxy bumps.
What is going on in the body?
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a poxvirus. It is characterized by a rash of small, flesh-colored bumps with a small depression in the center. A person with a immunodeficiency disorder will have a more severe form of molluscum contagiosum, with many skin lesions.
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
The poxvirus that causes molluscum contagiosum is spread through close physical contact, including sexual intercourse. In addition, a person can spread the rash over his or her own body by scratching.