Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral infection of the skin. Children of all ages are affected, and it is spread by direct contact. Typically it is manifested as tiny, pearly red bumps anywhere on the skin, but especially on the trunk and extremities. They may go away in a few months to two years, but if they are painful and spreading extensively, they need to be treated.
Molluscum in adults is usually considered a mild, sexually transmitted disease (STD), and as such needs to be treated because it can spread easily.