DEAR DR. GOTT: I would like information concerning molluscum contagiosum.

My 8-year-old daughter started with a spot on her wrist. Her pediatrician told me that it would go away on its own. However, it has been more than a year and it hasn’t disappeared yet. There are also other spots that have shown up on various locations of her body. Now my 10-year-old son has developed it, with patches on his legs. I’ve debated taking both children to a dermatologist because I learned it could be a painful process to take that route. I’ve also heard I could use a silver cream. Have you heard of success with this treatment?

DEAR READER: Molloscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the skin that can affect people of any age; however, it is more prevalent in children. It presents with flesh- to pearl-colored lesions anywhere on the body (except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet) and can last up to a year in people with a normal immune system. Unfortunately, the systems of children are not completely developed, thus making them more susceptible than adults.

It is common for people in the same family to touch toys and towels, answer the telephone, and turn doorknobs to spread this contagious disorder through direct contact. Hand washing and cleanliness are vital.
Diagnosis is commonly made through visual contact. Should questions arise, scrapings can always be accomplished for examination under a microscope.

In many instances, treatment isn’t necessary. When recommended or preferred, the most common methods include cryotherapy, laser and curettage — all very dramatic for a child to undergo. There are topical creams a pediatrician might recommend, such as podophyllotoxin or trichloroacetic acid or the silver you refer to, that should be more to your liking.