What Is Molluscum?

Cantharidin was first isolated from the Spanish Fly by a French chemist in 1810 and has been used as a medicine worldwide. It is nicknamed Beetlejuice.

It is used to treat viral warts and molluscum contagiosum in many dermatology offices as a non-painful and effective treatment. Physicians and practices not adequately trained to use cantharidin should avoid use because it is very safe and painless with training but can lead to painful, devastating blisters if not used correctly. At home, use is NOT recommended.

How it works:

A gel is placed on the bump that causes a blister “bubble” to form on the viral wart or molluscum.

-The gel only affects the superficial epidermal cells and does not affect deep skin; therefore, it does not cause scarring but is only a mild treatment for thick warts. It is a great treatment for molluscum.

Post Cantharidin Care:

Wash the treated areas with mild soap and water within 2-4 hours
Within 24-48 hours, a blister should form and fall off in the form of a scab.
Advise child not to rub or pick at the area
Typically the area should be well healed in 7 days.
If the area treated was in a “dirty” area like the groin, mouth, or feet, vinegar soaks for 5-10 minutes using 1/3 white vinegar 2/3 water on a clean cloth can help prevent infection.
You do not have to use a bandaid or cover unless the area becomes painful, tender, or unsightly.

The average number of treatments is 3 spread 3-6 weeks apart for molluscum and 4-6 treatments for viral warts.

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