Molluscum Contagiosum vs Common Nevus

How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.

Feature
Molluscum Contagiosum
Common Nevus
Category
Common
Benign
Key feature
Viral infection causing small, firm, dimpled bumps. Extremely common in children. Usually self-resolving.
Normal moles - clusters of pigment cells. Usually harmless, but monthly monitoring for changes is essential.
Risk factors
Childhood (ages 1-10); Direct skin contact with infected individuals; Swimming pools and shared bathing
Genetic predisposition (number of moles is largely hereditary); Sun exposure during childhood and adolescence; Fair skin
Action needed
If unsure of the diagnosis
Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (a poxvirus). It produces small (2-5mm), firm, dome-shaped, flesh-colored or pearly bumps with a characteristic central dimple (umbilication).

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Common Nevus

A common nevus is a normal mole - a well-defined growth formed by a cluster of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). Most adults develop between 10 and 40 common moles by their 30s, and the number gradually decreases with age as some moles naturally fade.

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Does yours look more like molluscum contagiosum?

Quick self-check

Does this look like molluscum contagiosum? Answer 2 questions.

Are they small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a tiny dimple in the center?

Is this in a child, or could there have been skin-to-skin contact?

Still not sure?

Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.

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