How Do You Spell MOLLUSCUM?

Pronunciation: [mˈɒlʌskəm] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "molluscum" is quite tricky. It is often misspelled as "molluscium" due to the unique pronunciation of the word. Using IPA phonetic transcription, we can see that the correct pronunciation is /məˈlʌskəm/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by the stress on the second syllable, which is pronounced with a short 'uh' sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a hard 'k' sound and an 'um' ending. Remembering this pronunciation can help you to spell the word correctly.

MOLLUSCUM Meaning and Definition

1. Molluscum, also known as molluscum contagiosum, is a common skin infection caused by a virus belonging to the poxvirus family. It manifests as small, round, and flesh-colored papules or bumps on the skin. These papules often have a central indentation or plug, giving them a characteristic appearance that resembles a small pearl or dome-shaped lesion. Molluscum contagiosum is most commonly found in children, but it can affect individuals of all ages and typically spreads through direct contact or through contaminated objects like towels or toys.

   The virus enters the skin through breaks or small scratches, leading to the formation of papules. Molluscum contagiosum is usually not painful, but it can cause mild itching, redness, or inflammation around the infected area. The papules may occur in clusters or as single lesions, with the face, neck, arms, and trunk being the common sites of infection. In individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, molluscum contagiosum can be more extensive and persistent.

   The infection is typically self-limiting, meaning it resolves on its own without treatment over a period of several months to a few years. However, treatment options are available for individuals who wish to expedite the healing process or reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others. These treatments may include physical removal methods like cryotherapy, curettage, or laser therapy. Topical medications, such as certain creams or ointments, can also be used to hasten the resolution of molluscum contagiosum.

Common Misspellings for MOLLUSCUM

• nolluscum
• kolluscum
• jolluscum
• milluscum
• mklluscum
• mllluscum
• mplluscum
• m0lluscum
• m9lluscum
• mokluscum
• mopluscum
• mooluscum
• molkuscum
• molpuscum
• molouscum
• mollyscum
• mollhscum
• molljscum
• molliscum

Etymology of MOLLUSCUM

The word "molluscum" has a Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin term "molluscus", which means "soft" or "flexible". The suffix "-cum" is added to indicate a disease or condition, a common practice in medical terminology. Overall, the term "molluscum" is used to describe the soft, rounded growths that occur on the skin caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus.