Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that produces shiny, pearly white or flesh- colored pimples on the skin. The pimples are dome-shaped and have a depression in their center. They may be itchy and may spread to form small clusters. Molluscum contagiosum is harmless but contagious; it can be spread by close skin contact, sexual intercourse, or contact with contaminated objects.
Children are not usually treated because treatment may be painful and leave scars.
It usually clears up by itself within about 12 months. In adults, the pimples may be removed for cosmetic reasons, by scraping them off, freezing or burning, laser therapy, or by using various topical medications.