When someone is infected with molluscum contagiosum they may
develop a secondary rash. Know as the molluscum rash or
molluscum dermatitis, this is a rash that resembles eczema. The
molluscum rash is often red, scaly and involves the skin
surrounding the actual viral bumps. As with eczema, the rash is
usually itchy. Scratching the area may cause the skin to break
down making it easier for the virus to spread. This rash occurs
in about 10% of patients with molluscum. It may in fact be a
sign that the body is beginning to “recognize” the molluscum as
is mounting an immune response. It is this immune response that
in fact causes the rash to occur. Treatment for molluscum
dermatitis can include the use of topical steroids if extensive
or particularly bothersome. In addition, treatment of the
underlying molluscum will also help to eradicate the rash.
February 7th, 2009 Are there molluscum symptoms? This is a
common question and one that is relatively straight forward to
answer. In most cases, there are no symptoms