Does cryotherapy treat molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum causes small, firm, often pearly bumps that can spread through skin contact or shared personal items. Freezing a bump damages the affected tissue so it can heal away. The treated spot may sting briefly and later form redness, a blister or a crust. Several bumps can be present in different stages, so one visit may not address every lesion. Treatment can also irritate surrounding skin, which matters when bumps are near the eyes or in sensitive areas.

Ask a clinician to confirm the bumps before treatment, since other skin growths can look similar. Avoid scratching, shaving over or squeezing them, and do not share towels, razors or clothing that touches the area. Keep treated skin clean and follow the dressing advice you receive. Tell the clinician about eczema, immune-system problems, pregnancy or bumps near the eyes before choosing cryotherapy.

Seek medical advice if bumps become very painful, rapidly inflamed, pus-filled or surrounded by spreading redness. Get prompt assessment for lesions near the eye, on the genitals or in a person with reduced immunity. After freezing, contact the treating service for worsening pain, increasing warmth, fever or drainage.

Ask whether observation is reasonable, how many visible bumps need treatment, how to reduce spread at home, and which signs would mean that a treated area needs review.