Key Facts
Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum: At a Glance
What is Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum?
- Benign viral infections of keratinocytes: HPV causes verruca vulgaris, plantaris, and plana; Molluscipoxvirus causes molluscum contagiosum.
Who gets Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum?
- Children (especially molluscum), athletes, and immunosuppressed patients. Warts are most common on hands and feet; molluscum on the trunk, axillae, and groin.
What are the symptoms of Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum?
- Rough skin-colored bumps (warts) or small pearly umbilicated papules (molluscum). Usually asymptomatic, sometimes tender or itchy.
How do you treat Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum?
- Cryotherapy, cantharidin, curettage, prescription immunotherapy (imiquimod, Candida antigen), and salicylic acid protocols.
How long does Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum take to improve?
- Most respond within 2–4 treatment sessions spaced 2–3 weeks apart.
When should I see a dermatologist for Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum?
- If lesions are painful, spreading, on the face or genitals, or persisting despite over-the-counter treatment.
Warts &
Molluscum.
Warts and molluscum contagiosum are viral skin conditions extremely common in children. At Modern Dermatology, we provide effective clearance protocols that prioritize comfort and minimize scarring in developing skin.
Viral Clearance.
Both warts (HPV) and molluscum (poxvirus) can spread rapidly through direct contact and self-inoculation. While they often resolve spontaneously in healthy children, active treatment prevents spread to siblings and classmates and addresses any cosmetic or functional concerns.
Common Warts
Rough, raised growths caused by HPV. Most commonly found on hands and feet. Treated with cryotherapy, prescription topicals, or curettage.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Small, dome-shaped bumps with a central dimple. Highly contagious among children. Cleared with cantharidin or gentle curettage.
Plantar Warts
Deep warts on the soles of the feet that can cause pain with walking. Require targeted treatment approaches for effective clearance.
Meet Your Specialists.
Dr. Grob
Founder & Dermatologist providing thoughtful, family-centered care for pediatric dermatologic conditions.
Frequently Asked.
Should I wait for warts to go away on their own?
Warts can persist for months to years and spread during that time. Treatment is recommended to prevent spread, especially in children.
What is cantharidin?
Cantharidin is a painless topical solution applied in-office that causes a blister beneath the wart or molluscum, lifting it away. It is well-tolerated by children.
Are warts contagious?
Yes. Warts spread through direct skin contact and shared surfaces (pool decks, gym mats). Treatment reduces the viral load and risk of transmission.
How many treatment sessions are needed?
Most warts require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced 2-3 weeks apart. Molluscum may clear faster with cantharidin.
MODERN DERMATOLOGY: SOUTH TAMPA'S PEDIATRIC WART SPECIALISTS
Board-certified dermatology in the heart of South Tampa. Accepting new patients.
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Further Reading
- American Academy of Dermatology — Warts
- American Academy of Dermatology — Molluscum Contagiosum
- NIH MedlinePlus — Warts
This page is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. If you have concerns about your skin, please schedule a consultation.