Molluscum Contagiosum-Topic Overview What is molluscum contagiosum? Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection that causes small pearly or flesh-colored bumps. The bumps may be clear, and the center often is indented. The infection is caused by a virus. The virus is easily spread but is not harmful. What are the symptoms? The bumps are round with a dimple in the center. People who have a weakened immune system may have dozens of larger bumps. How does molluscum contagiosum spread? The virus commonly spreads through skin-to-skin contact. The time from exposure to the virus until the bumps appear usually is 2 to 7 weeks, but it can take up to 6 months.1 To prevent molluscum contagiosum from spreading: Try not to scratch. How is it diagnosed? Your doctor will do a physical exam and may take a sample of the bumps for testing. How is it treated? In most cases, molluscum contagiosum doesn't need to be treated. Doctors usually recommend treatment for these bumps in the genital area to prevent them from spreading.
Winter Darkness, Season Depression Winter depression is still a mystery to scientists who study it. But researchers agree that people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder are particularly sensitive to light, or the lack of it. Why do I need to register or sign in for WebMD to save? We will provide you with a dropdown of all your saved articles when you are registered and signed in. A wistful feeling comes over us in late autumn, as the last remaining leaves drop, morning frosts cover the ground, and the sun sets earlier each day. Winter depression is still a mystery to scientists who study it. Many studies have shown that people with seasonal affective disorder feel better after exposure to bright light. He thinks seasonal affective disorder is due to a "phase-shift" of the circadian rhythm. This is relevant to the "fall back" time change, which happens in places that observe Daylight Saving Time. Continue reading below... Arctic Winters