Warts and Molluscum: When to Seek Care

An independent educational resource prepared by Mark M. Simonian, MD, FAAP

Sources checked: August 8, 2026     |     Medical review completed: August 8, 2026

This page is for general education only and does not replace individualized medical advice. This resource does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. For questions about your own child, contact your child's current healthcare professional.

Magnolia Pediatrics, Valley Children's Healthcare

2497 E. Herndon Avenue, Suite 101, Clovis, CA 93611     |     559-538-3070

Warts and molluscum are common viral skin conditions. They are usually harmless but may spread, itch, or become irritated. Avoid picking, cutting, burning, or using internet remedies on bumps.

Urgent Warning Signs - Check This First

These bumps are not usually an emergency. Spreading redness, severe pain, fever, or a child who looks ill may signal a skin infection.

CALL 911 NOW

  • A severe allergic reaction with breathing or swallowing difficulty, collapse, or blue or gray color

CONTACT YOUR CHILD'S HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL TODAY

  • Spreading red, hot, painful skin, pus, red streaks, fever, or a child who appears ill

  • Bumps on the face, around the eyes, or on the genitals; a new genital lesion; significant pain, bleeding, or rapid spread

  • Uncertain diagnosis, many lesions, a weakened immune system, eczema with irritated lesions, or lesions affecting daily life

How They May Look

  • Warts are often rough, firm bumps on hands, feet, knees, or other skin. They may be painful on the sole of the foot

  • Molluscum are small, smooth, firm, skin-colored or pink bumps that may have a tiny dimple in the center

  • Other rashes can look similar. A clinician can confirm the diagnosis when there is doubt

Home Care and Prevention

  • Do not pick, squeeze, shave over, or try to remove bumps at home; this can spread infection or leave scars

  • Keep nails short, cover lesions that may have close skin contact, and wash hands regularly

  • Do not share towels, washcloths, clothing, razors, or personal sports equipment

  • Children with ordinary warts or molluscum usually do not need to miss school or child care

Treatment Decisions

Many warts and molluscum clear on their own. Treatment may be considered when lesions are painful, spreading, frequently picked, cosmetically distressing, or in a sensitive area. The choice depends on the child’s age, location, skin type, and diagnosis. Do not use wart-removing acids or other treatments on molluscum, the face, or genital areas unless specifically directed by a clinician.

Call Preparation

  • When bumps began, where they are located, whether they itch, hurt, bleed, or spread, and products already tried

  • History of eczema, immune conditions, or medicines that affect immunity

  • A clear photo in good light if safely obtained; do not share private-area photos

Related Guides

Sources and Medical Review