*STATEWIDE REFERRAL CRITERIA have been published for this condition. For more information, please see the Department of Health website www.health.vic.gov.au/statewide-refrral-criteria*

Introduction

This guideline relates to molluscum contagiosum for children of all ages.

When to refer

• Patients <16 years of age
• Diagnosis is in question
• Involvement of moderate to severe eczema
• The child is immunosuppressed
• The lesions are affecting the child’s quality of life e.g. exclusion, bullying

Services available closer to home

Referral criteria/required information

Skin and nail infections and infestations in children | health.vic.gov.au

How to refer

RCH Specialist Clinics Referral.pdf

Please complete the above and submit via:

• Fax (03) 9345 5034 or
• Email screferrals@rch.org.au

Suggested pre-referral work-up/management 

• Refer to the RCH Kids Health Info handout on molluscum.
• Most children do not require treatment

• Beware of physical treatments that may increase the risk of scarring such as liquid nitrogen freezing (cryotherapy) or squeezing the central core. These are not routinely recommended
• Treat associated eczema or secondary bacterial infection

Information for families

At home care includes:

• Shower instead of bathing
• Wash and dry bath toys after use
• Do not share baths or towels with other children
• Children with molluscum should not be isolated or restricted in their activities
• Exclusion from childcare or school is not required

Resources and links

Kids Health Info : Molluscum

Acknowledgements

The development of this guideline was coordinated by the Department of Dermatology. Guideline reviewed in February 2025.