Molluscum contagiosum is a common and contagious skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It is characterized by the appearance of small, raised, and painless bumps on the skin, which can be flesh-colored, white, or pink. The condition is usually self-limiting and resolves without treatment over time, but it can spread to other parts of the body or to other individuals through direct skin-to-skin contact or sharing personal items.