TeenHealthFX - Answers - Seems To Be Like Molluscom Contagiousom

Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Question
Published: June 16, 2004

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I have developed something that seems to be like molluscum contagiousom. I am not, nor have I ever been sexually active, but I did borrow a pair of pajama pants from my friend one evening when I spent the night. Only after this incident did I notice she had the bumps on her and shortly after I began to develop them. I have had occurrences for about a year, and was wondering if this condition can be acquired by this sharing of clothing in adults (I'm 19, male)and if it really will go away on it's own. I have had bumps on my groin area,and just recently my face, arms, and now calves. Could it be getting worse? The bumps tend to fill with puss (or something similar) and swell, so I almost always pop them b/c they become very sore, I'm very embarrassed by this, and wanted to know if STD clinics will treat me, seeing as I don't have health insurance. Any info you have would be great. Thanks.

Signed: Seems To Be Like Molluscom Contagiousom

Dear Seems To Be Like Molluscom Contagiousom,

Unfortunately, FX cannot make diagnoses over the Internet, so we cannot tell you for sure what is causing the bumps you have on your body. Even though you don't have health insurance, it's really a good idea for you to get checked out by a doctor, especially because you have seen these bumps in your groin area - any changes or lesions in your genital region should be seen by a professional as soon as possible and most conditions are easier to treat early on. You can call your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood for an appointment. They can see you confidentially. If you live in northern New Jersey you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.971.6475.

That said, molluscum contagiosum is a common, non-cancerous skin growth that is caused by a viral infection in the top layers in the skin. They are similar to warts, but are caused by a different virus. Molluscum is usually small flesh-colored or pink dome-shaped growths. They may appear shiny and might have a small indentation in the center. Often they become red and inflamed, usually right before they are ready to go away on their own. In people with suppressed immune systems, they can spread over the whole body and become a big problem.

As the "contagiosum" part of the name indicates, the virus and resulting growths are easily spread by skin-to-skin contact. While most cases of molluscum in teenagers and adults are spread by sexual contact, it is possible to pass the virus on by clothing or towels or just general skin-to-skin contact. The bumps can then spread from one part of the body to another by scratching. FX has answered questions similar to yours in the past, so you might want to check out Molluscom Contagiousom and The Clam for more information.

Even though most cases of molluscum contagiosum will go away on their own in 6 months to 3 years, it's really important for you to see a doctor to make sure that what you have really is molluscum. There are other conditions that can cause a rash which are more serious than molluscum and need to be dealt with by a medical professional in a timely manner. In addition, these bumps are probably causing you anxiety and insecurity, and are contagious, so it's best you see a doctor to find out what's going on and get treated as he or she sees fit. In the meantime before you can get in to see a doctor, it's not a good idea to be popping these bumps because that can lead to infection and possible scarring, which could complicate the situation a bit. Good luck!

Signed: TeenHealthFX

Signed: TeenHealthFX