Molluscum contagiosum
Careful diagnosis and gentle treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children – by an experienced pediatric dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Molluscum contagiosum
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
In our specialized pediatric consultation, we carefully assess whether treatment for molluscum contagiosum (also known as water warts) is necessary. We then choose a gentle therapy tailored to the child’s age and individual needs.
Examinations
painless skin magnifier
Procedure
Personal consultation
Thorough skin examination
Gentle treatment on site
Duration
between 10 and 15 minutes
What is molluscum contagiosum in children?
Molluscum contagiosum – also called water warts – are small, round skin bumps that are common in children. They are usually skin-colored or slightly shiny with a typical small dent in the center.
They often appear smoother than regular warts and tend to show up in clusters. Typical areas include the arms, legs, face or the upper body.
Molluscum contagiosum is harmless and often goes away on its own after some time. Treatment is recommended if the bumps become inflamed, spread quickly, itch or are found bothersome by the child.
Careful evaluation and, if needed, treatment of molluscum contagiosum is especially recommended if …
- the bumps become inflamed, itchy or cause pain
- the skin changes increase rapidly or spread across larger areas
- the bumps appear on sensitive or cosmetically concerning areas (e.g. face, genital area)
- the bumps do not heal on their own after a longer observation period
- there is uncertainty whether it is really molluscum contagiosum or possibly another skin condition
What happens during diagnosis and treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children?
At the Derma Medical Clinic, every treatment begins with a thorough skin examination by a specialist in pediatric dermatology. The affected areas are carefully checked using a special skin magnifier that makes even the smallest changes visible.
What happens during treatment?
Whether treatment is needed is decided individually – depending on the location, number of bumps, symptoms, and skin type. Several gentle methods can be used:
- careful removal of the bumps with a fine instrument
- freezing (cryotherapy)
- supportive care with special creams or solutions
For sensitive areas, a numbing cream is applied in advance to make the treatment as pain-free as possible. In addition, parents receive at-home care instructions to help the skin heal well and reduce the chance of new bumps.
How does treatment for molluscum contagiosum work?
Important: The examination is done calmly, at the child’s pace. Examinations or treatments only happen if the child feels safe. No one is pressured – instead, we respond with patience and experience to the child’s mood and behavior.
Personal consultation
First, we carefully gather your child’s medical history, past treatments, and current symptoms.
Thorough skin check
The affected areas are examined closely – with trained eyes and a special dermatoscope.
Individual advice and treatment plan
You will then receive calm, child-friendly guidance on whether and what treatment is recommended.
Gentle treatment
If treatment is needed, the bump is removed – by freezing (cryotherapy), careful extraction with a fine tool, or laser therapy, depending on the findings.
Care instructions for home
After treatment, parents receive clear tips for supportive care and follow-up – helping healing and preventing recurrence.
At the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity, children are treated by Dr. Markus Dendorfer, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in pediatric dermatology.
He brings many years of experience in child-friendly skin diagnosis and care, and is especially skilled at meeting the unique needs of young patients.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What you can expect from us
Specialized pediatric dermatology
Care provided by an experienced pediatric dermatologist who specializes in childhood skin conditions.
Child-friendly care
Plenty of patience, empathy, and flexibility: all exams and treatments go at the child’s pace—never rushed or forced.
Everything under one roof
Diagnosis, treatment and follow-up happen right in our clinic – with no need to go elsewhere or wait weeks.
At-home care instructions
After treatment, parents receive clear recommendations for care and aftercare to best support healing.
Not sure if your child needs treatment – or want an expert opinion on molluscum contagiosum?
Book an appointment now in our pediatric dermatology consultation at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity.
FAQ – Common questions about treating molluscum contagiosum in children
How do molluscum contagiosum bumps develop in children?
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). The virus enters the body through tiny cuts in the skin – for example, when walking barefoot or sharing items like towels.
Is molluscum contagiosum contagious?
Yes, molluscum contagiosum is contagious. It spreads through direct skin contact or indirectly via towels, clothing, or swimming pools. The risk is higher in places where many children are close together (e.g. kindergartens).
Do molluscum bumps need treatment?
In many cases, the bumps heal on their own within 6 to 12 months. Treatment is recommended if the bumps are inflamed, spreading rapidly, itchy, or interfering with daily life.
What are the treatment options for molluscum contagiosum?
Treatment options for children include:
- careful removal of the bumps with a fine instrument
- freezing (cryotherapy)
- supportive treatment with special creams or solutions
The method depends on age, appearance, and skin sensitivity.
At the Derma Medical Clinic, treatment is always tailored to the child’s age and skin sensitivity.
Is the treatment painful for children?
Most treatments are well tolerated. Freezing may cause brief burning or pressure. For sensitive areas, we use numbing cream to make the procedure as pain-free as possible.
How long does healing take?
Without treatment, molluscum contagiosum usually clears up within a year. Targeted care can speed up healing and reduce symptoms.
Can molluscum contagiosum leave scars?
Most molluscum bumps heal without leaving scars. However, scratching or improper treatment can increase the risk of small scars.
How can I prevent my child from getting molluscum contagiosum?
Good hygiene is important: wear sandals at the pool, don’t share towels or clothing, and treat any skin injuries promptly. This reduces the chance of spreading or catching the virus.
When should we see a doctor about molluscum bumps?
A doctor visit is recommended if the bumps are very itchy, inflamed, spreading quickly, or if you’re not sure whether it’s really molluscum contagiosum.
