Service – Ihr Hautarzt

Removing a Mole

Anton Horst — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 09:33:10 +0000

Mole Removal in Frankfurt

Moles can change over the course of a person’s life or be perceived as bothersome in everyday life. At our private practice for dermatology and skin surgery in Frankfurt, we evaluate your moles from a dermatological perspective and then remove them on an outpatient basis. Depending on the findings, we may opt for traditional surgical removal for laboratory analysis or for ablative laser procedures.

What types of moles are there?

Almost everyone has them: moles (nevi). They are benign skin lesions caused by a cluster of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) or blood vessels. The average adult has between 10 and 40 of these spots.

But not all moles are the same. They differ in color, shape, depth, and origin.

Classic Pigmented Lesions (Melanocytic Nevi)

These moles are caused by the proliferation of melanocytes, the cells responsible for our skin’s tanning. Depending on which layer of the skin the cells are located in, there are three main types:

Junctional nevus:

Appearance: Flat, sharply defined, usually dark brown to black.
Location: Pigment cells are located in the outermost layer of the epidermis.

Compound nevus (mixed type):

Appearance: Slightly raised, usually an even brown color, sometimes with a slightly rough surface.
Location: The cells are located in both the upper dermis and the underlying dermis.

Dermal nevus (true birthmark):

Appearance: Distinctly raised, knot- or button-like, often skin-colored to light brown. Small hairs often grow from them.
Location: The pigment cells are located deep within the dermis.

Special and Atypical Forms

Some moles differ from the typical appearance. They often require a little more attention:

Atypical / Dysplastic Nevus:

These lesions are usually larger than 5 mm, irregular in shape, and multicolored (a mixture of brown, red, and pink hues). Although they are benign, they are considered an indicator of an increased risk of skin cancer and should be checked regularly by a doctor.

Halo nevus (Sutton nevus):

A brown birthmark surrounded by a white, depigmented ring. In this case, the body’s own immune system is trying to break down the pigment cells. The birthmark often fades on its own over time.

Blue nevus:

A small, firm nodule that is blue-gray or blue-black in color. The unusual color is caused by the deep location of the pigment cells in the skin, which refract light differently.

Congenital nevus (birthmark):

These birthmarks are present at birth or develop shortly thereafter. They can range from tiny spots to large, hairy areas.

Vascular Birthmarks

In colloquial language, skin lesions that do not consist of pigment cells at all, but rather of blood vessels, are also referred to as birthmarks:

Stork bite (fire mark): Pale red spots on the back of the head, forehead, or eyelids of newborns, which usually fade during the first year of life.
Hemangioma (“blood blister”): Benign growths of blood vessels that appear as small, bright red spots or raised areas.

When should you see a dermatologist?

Most moles are completely harmless. However, some types of moles—or new moles that appear on the skin—can develop into malignant lesions. The simple ABCDE rule can help you check your moles yourself:

Asymmetry: The birthmark is not a uniform circle or oval.
Border: The edges are blurred, jagged, or frayed.
Color: The spot has different shades (e.g., brown, black, reddish).
Diameter: The birthmark is larger than 5 mm.
Development: It changes in shape, size, or color, or starts to itch or bleed.

If you notice a mole that has changed or a new one that has appeared, please have it checked during your annual skin cancer screening at our practice.

When should or can you have a birthmark removed?

The reasons for removal are usually either medical or cosmetic in nature.

Medical Indication: If a mole changes in shape, color, or size (suggesting skin cancer or a malignant mole) or if it bleeds or itches, it should be examined by a dermatologist immediately and, if necessary, surgically removed.
Functional reasons: Protruding moles on the face, neck, or in areas where bra straps, belts, or razors rub can be bothersome or painful

Safety first: Every mole that is surgically removed at our practice is routinely sent to our partner laboratory for a detailed tissue examination (histology) to ensure that any malignant changes are ruled out.

Methods for Mole Removal at Our Frankfurt Practice

Depending on the findings, tissue depth, and location, we will select the least invasive procedure for you:

Surgical removal

When to use: For all medically significant moles, as well as deep-seated, raised pigmented lesions.
Procedure: Under local anesthesia, the birthmark is precisely excised with a scalpel. The wound is then closed using the most advanced and delicate suturing techniques, often with continuous sutures placed beneath the skin to minimize visible scarring.

Removal Using a Laser

When to use: Only for moles that are clearly benign or slightly raised.
Procedure: The pigmented tissue is precisely ablated layer by layer using high-energy laser light. The treatment usually leaves only a fine abrasion that heals quickly.

How is a mole removed?

Initial Examination & Consultation
Using reflected-light microscopy (dermatoscopy), we will carefully evaluate your mole and work with you to determine the best treatment option.
Gentle Removal
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis at our practice under local anesthesia. You will generally not feel any pain during the brief procedure.
Wound Care & Aftercare
We’ll provide you with an appropriate wound dressing as well as detailed tips on scar care to ensure optimal healing.
Histological examination
If the tissue is surgically removed, it is analyzed histologically. We usually have the results within a few days.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions After Mole Removal

What should I do during the first few days after the procedure?

Fibroma Removal

Anton Horst — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 09:18:07 +0000

What is a fibroma?

A fibroma (often referred to as a skin tag or soft skin growth) is a benign growth of connective tissue. These skin growths are completely harmless from a medical standpoint and are not contagious; however, they are often considered bothersome, either for aesthetic reasons or because they rub against clothing and jewelry.

Important to know: A so-called “soft fibroma” is not a true wart (which is caused by a virus), but rather a simple overgrowth of connective tissue.

In general, skin tags can appear almost anywhere on the body. They are particularly common in skin folds or in areas subject to friction:

Face & Eyelids: Skin tags in these areas can often be a cosmetic nuisance in everyday life or when applying makeup. The delicate eyelid area requires the utmost precision.
Neck & Decolletage: Friction from necklaces or collars often leads to inflammation or bleeding of the fibroma.
Mouth & Tongue: Connective tissue growths (irritation fibromas) can also develop in the oral cavity as a result of repeatedly biting the inside of the mouth.
Armpits & Genital Area: These are typical areas where multiple small skin tags can form due to skin-on-skin friction.

What types of fibroids are there?

Medically, we classify connective tissue growths primarily into two types, which differ in their structure, shape, and typical location on the body:

Soft Fibroma (Fibroma molle)

This type is the most common form of skin tag and is often colloquially referred to as a “stalked wart. “ It is characterized by its narrow base, from which the fibroma protrudes like a stalk above the skin’s surface (fibroma pendulum).

Appearance: Skin-colored to slightly brownish, ranging in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
Common locations: Mainly in skin folds or areas subject to friction, such as the eyelids, neck, nape of the neck, and the underarm and groin areas. They appear in many people starting in middle age.

Hard Fibroma (Fibroma durum)

Unlike the soft type, the hard fibroma develops in the deeper layers of the skin. As a result, it feels firm and usually forms a flat, only slightly raised nodular structure.

Appearance: The color ranges from pale pink to skin tones to darker shades of brown.
Common locations: They tend to appear on the legs and arms and often develop in response to minor injuries or insect bites.

Fibroma Removal in Frankfurt

The removal of fibromas (skin tags) is a quick, routine procedure that we perform on an outpatient basis at our Frankfurt practice. Depending on the size, type, and location of the fibroma, we select the most appropriate method to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result:

Surgical removal: Larger skin tags or irritant fibromas (e.g., in areas subject to significant mechanical stress, such as the neck or armpits) are removed precisely and painlessly under local anesthesia.
Gentle Laser Therapy: Our team relies on high-precision lasers, especially for treatments on the face, eyelids, and décolletage. The tissue is gently and bloodlessly removed, without any stitches and with an extremely low risk of scarring.

Can you remove fibroids on your own?

From a medical standpoint, we strongly advise against cutting off or tying off skin tags yourself. This often leads to painful inflammation, infections, and unsightly scars.

Why You Should Avoid It

Risk of Infection and Inflammation
Skin tags are highly vascularized. Improperly cutting or tying them off opens the deep tissue layers to bacteria, which can lead to painful inflammation.

Unattractive scarring
Procedures performed by untrained individuals often result in irregular, dark pigmentation or visible scars that are more cosmetically bothersome than the original fibroma.

Risk of Misdiagnosis
Not every skin lesion that looks like a stalked wart is actually one. Before any removal, a specialist should examine the lesion to determine whether it might be another type of skin lesion that requires further evaluation.

Would you like to have unsightly skin growths removed professionally and safely?

Schedule a consultation now at our dermatology practice in Frankfurt.

Lipoma Removal

Anton Horst — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 08:44:41 +0000

Lipomas

A lipoma is a benign growth of fatty tissue that develops gradually in the subcutaneous fat tissue. Although these fatty tumors are generally harmless from a medical standpoint, they often cause cosmetic concerns or physical or functional symptoms.

If you’d like to have a lipoma removed, our dermatology practice in Frankfurt am Main offers a procedure that minimizes tissue damage and leaves minimal scarring. Learn here how lipomas develop and how we surgically remove them.

What is a lipoma, and how does it develop?

A lipoma is a benign tumor of the subcutaneous fatty tissue. It consists of a cluster of fat cells enclosed by a connective tissue capsule. The lump usually feels soft to doughy, can be easily moved under the skin, and generally grows very slowly.

Symptoms: Lipomas are often painless. However, depending on their location and size, they can press on surrounding nerves, muscles, or blood vessels, causing local pain, a feeling of pressure, or limited range of motion.

Common locations: Lipomas occur particularly frequently on the neck, back, shoulders, arms, thighs, or abdomen.

Causes: The exact cause has not yet been conclusively determined by science. However, a genetic predisposition (familial clustering) plays a key role in many patients.

Important Note: Any new or noticeably growing skin lesion should always be evaluated by a dermatologist to definitively rule out malignant changes in the tissue (such as a rare liposarcoma) or other subcutaneous lumps.

Why is surgical removal the only effective method?

Lipomas do not disappear on their own. Wound ointments, massages, diets, or medication have no effect, since the tissue is isolated from normal fat metabolism by its capsule.

The indications for surgical removal include:

Impact on Quality of Life: If the lesion is clearly visible and causes significant distress or a relevant impact on quality of life, surgical removal may be medically justified.
Physical discomfort: Annoying pressure pain or chafing caused by tight-fitting clothing.
Preventing Further Growth: Smaller lipomas require smaller incisions—the sooner the procedure is performed, the less noticeable the resulting scar will be.

Lipoma Removal in Frankfurt – The Process

As experienced dermatologists, we place the highest priority on medical precision, minimal tissue trauma, and a cosmetically pleasing scar when performing the surgical removal of skin lesions.

1. Initial Examination & Counseling

Before the procedure, we thoroughly examine the lesion by visual inspection and palpation (using ultrasound imaging if necessary). We will discuss the procedure with you in a transparent manner and answer all your questions.

2. The Outpatient Procedure

Lipoma removal is performed entirely on an outpatient basis at our practice in Frankfurt:

Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed with a local anesthetic. This makes the procedure virtually painless for you.

Surgical removal: The lipoma, along with its tissue capsule, is completely excised through a small incision in the skin. Removing the entire capsule is crucial to prevent recurrence at the same site. The area is then carefully sutured to ensure optimal wound healing.

Histological confirmation: The excised tissue is routinely sent for microscopic examination (histology) to definitively confirm that it is benign.

Potential Risks Associated with Lipoma Removal

The surgical removal of lipomas is one of the low-risk routine procedures in outpatient dermatology. Nevertheless, it is a surgical procedure in which, as with any skin surgery, minimal side effects may occur. These include minor post-operative bleeding, redness, bruising, or temporary numbness around the incision site, which usually subside quickly on their own. Thanks to our strict hygiene and sterility standards, infections or wound healing complications are extremely rare.

Aftercare Following Lipoma Removal

Careful post-operative care is the key to rapid, complication-free wound healing and a visually inconspicuous scar. After your outpatient procedure, we’ll provide you with clear recommendations for the days that follow:

Wound Care & Hygiene: During the first few days, a sterile bandage protects the small surgical wound from contamination and bacteria. Be sure to keep the wound dry. You can usually take a quick shower again after just a few days using a special waterproof bandage.

Recovery & Daily Life: You’ll be able to resume normal social activities immediately after the procedure. However, avoid strenuous physical activity and lifting heavy objects for the first few days to prevent pressure on the incision.

Suture Removal: If non-absorbable sutures were used, we will check the healing process during a brief follow-up appointment after about 10 to 14 days and remove the sutures.

Exercise & Recovery: You should avoid strenuous exercise, swimming pools, saunas, and tanning beds for about 2 to 4 weeks, until the layers of skin have fully healed.

Targeted scar care: Once the wound has completely healed, gentle scar creams and light massages help maintain the tissue’s elasticity. You should also protect the area from direct UV exposure during the first few months to prevent changes in the scar’s pigmentation.

Do you have any questions, or would you like to have a lipoma examined?

Have any bothersome lipomas professionally and safely evaluated. We would be happy to consult with you in person at our dermatology practice in Frankfurt am Main.

Polynucleotides and profhilo

Anton Horst — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 18:33:39 +0000

PhilArt Eye - PolyPhil Eye

PhilArt Eye – PolyPhil Eye is an injectable formula to combat all types of signs of ageing and fatigue throughout the eye area. The polynucleotides it contains promote long-term cell renewal and ensure that the eyes look fresher and less tired. Unlike other products, this cocktail is particularly suitable for people with sensitive skin and for the thin skin around the eyes.

In just 3-4 treatments, crow’s feet and wrinkles under the eyes can be permanently filled and brightened. Thanks to this serum, you can revitalize and renew the eyebrow arch and the entire eye contour. It is not a filler, but an injection for general stimulation of the eye area as a preventive and curative measure. This cocktail is used to improve the quality of the skin around the eyes.

The serum is also suitable for improving the structure and elasticity of the skin. The result is a radiant, awake look that lasts for a long time.

As we are not allowed to show before/after pictures, we recommend that you look at pictures on the Internet and see the treatments for yourself

Questions and answers on treatment with polynucleotides

For which skin types and age groups is PhilArt suitable?

Skin rejuvenation with laser

Anton Horst — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 13:23:03 +0000

Skin rejuvenation with laser in Frankfurt - for a fresh and radiant complexion

Modern laser medicine offers effective options for skin rejuvenation. Targeted stimulation of skin regeneration can reduce signs of ageing, improve skin structure and achieve a fresh, youthful complexion. At our dermatology practice for skin rejuvenation in Frankfurt, we use the latest laser technologies to achieve optimal results for our patients.

Advantages of skin rejuvenation with laser

How does laser skin rejuvenation work?

Our skin has the natural ability to regenerate. However, this process slows down with increasing age. By using state-of-the-art fractional lasers, we can create targeted micro-injuries in the skin, which activates the healing process. Old skin cells are removed and replaced by new, collagen-rich cells. This leads to visible skin rejuvenation with an even and fresh complexion.

Innovative laser techniques for firmer and smoother skin

Our laser treatments for skin rejuvenation are suitable for the targeted improvement of a wide range of skin changes and signs of ageing:

Wrinkle reduction – by stimulating collagen production for firmer skin
Improvement of the skin structure – to refine the pores and smooth the skin
Removal of pigment spots – for a flawless complexion
Reduction of scars – including acne scars or surgical scars
Treatment of vasodilatation (couperose, rosacea)
Correction of age spots and warts

Book your preferred date online now

Which lasers are used for skin rejuvenation?

In our practice in Frankfurt, we use state-of-the-art laser systems specifically for different skin needs:

Nd:YAG laser – ideal for treating vascular changes such as couperose and rosacea. Precise light pulses gently close dilated veins without damaging the surrounding tissue.
Erbium:YAG laser – particularly effective for skin rejuvenation and scar treatment. Targeted ablation of the uppermost layers of the skin stimulates the natural renewal process, resulting in a finer complexion
IPL flash lamp pulse therapy – for the removal of pigmentation marks and permanent hair removal. The IPL emits high-intensity light in different wavelengths, which has a targeted effect on the pigment-forming cells or dark hair roots.
Laser lipolysis – an innovative method for targeted fat reduction and skin tightening in the face, particularly effective for double chins or small fat deposits.

Find out more about our services in the field of laser medicine here.

Treatment procedure

Before treatment, we carry out a detailed skin analysis to determine the best individual laser therapy for your skin. This is followed by the targeted laser application, which uses very fine light pulses to create micro-injuries in the skin in order to stimulate the natural regeneration process. Depending on the intensity of the laser, slight redness or swelling may occur after the treatment, but this will subside within a few hours or days. Individually tailored aftercare ensures optimal results and rapid regeneration of the skin.

Alternatives to skin rejuvenation with laser

In addition to laser treatment, there are other effective methods of skin rejuvenation that can be a useful addition or alternative, depending on the skin type and individual needs. Muscle relaxants are often used for targeted wrinkle reduction by relaxing the facial muscles and thus reducing expression lines. On the other hand, wrinkle injections with hyaluronic acid fillers can compensate for volume loss and plump up the skin.

PRP (vampire lifting) in combination with microneedling stimulates cell regeneration and promotes natural collagen formation, while retinol peelings remove dead skin cells and refine the skin’s appearance. HydraFacial® also offers intensive skin cleansing, hydration and rejuvenation for an instant glow.
Depending on the skin condition and individual wishes, these methods can also be combined with laser treatment to achieve the best possible results.

Frequently asked questions about laser skin rejuvenation

Is laser treatment for skin rejuvenation painful?

Facial laser treatment

Anton Horst — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 10:30:30 +0000

Improving the appearance of the skin with laser - Effective treatment in Frankfurt

Facial laser treatment is a proven method for improving the appearance of the skin and for the targeted treatment of skin changes. At our practice in Frankfurt, we offer state-of-the-art laser therapies for skin rejuvenation, scar treatment and the removal of unwanted skin changes. With our laser systems, we ensure optimal treatment results for a wide range of skin problems.

Your advantages at a glance:

Possible applications of laser treatment on the face

Our ultra-modern laser treatments offer a wide range of options for improving the skin and selectively correcting undesirable skin changes on the face:

Treatment of red veins (couperose) – especially for rosacea
Removal of age spots and warts – for an even complexion
Scar treatment – for example acne scars or surgical scars
Removal of pigment spots – for flawless skin
Reduction of unwanted facial hair – for smooth skin
Improvement of the skin structure – to refine the pores and generally smooth the skin
Skin tightening and wrinkle reduction – by stimulating collagen production

The laser systems used

For precise and effective facial laser treatment, we use state-of-the-art laser technologies that are individually tailored to the respective skin condition and treatment goal.

Depending on the indication, different systems such as the Nd:YAG, Erbium:YAG laser or IPL technology are used. These enable targeted treatment of vascular changes, pigmentation disorders, wrinkles, scars or sagging tissue – with high effectiveness and minimal downtime. By combining different types of lasers, we can treat both superficial and deeper skin layers and thus achieve particularly holistic results.

In addition, laser lipolysis is an innovative method for targeted fat reduction and skin tightening on the face or body. It is particularly effective in the treatment of double chins and fat deposits (e.g. sagging cheeks), upper arms, abdomen and thighs, which are difficult or impossible to treat using traditional methods such as fat removal injections.

Book your preferred date online now

Treatment procedure

Before each laser treatment, a detailed skin analysis is carried out to determine the best possible form of therapy for your individual skin condition. The treatment itself is usually well tolerated. There may be slight redness or swelling after the session, but this subsides quickly.

Frequently asked questions about facial laser treatment

Is laser treatment of the face painful?

Laser lipolysis

Anton Horst — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:51:50 +0000

Laser lipolysis in Frankfurt

The advantages of innovative laser treatment at a glance:

Immediately visible results: Skin tightens after just one session, with further improvements in the months following treatment.
Long-term effect: The stimulated collagen production sustainably improves the skin's appearance and reduces excess fatty tissue.
Minimally invasive and virtually painless: no surgical intervention - the small puncture is usually performed without anesthesia.
Short recovery time: outpatient treatment with no downtime.

The unique, non-surgical, laser-assisted treatment to reduce sagging skin offers a modern solution to tighten your skin and rejuvenate its appearance. Laser lipolysis not only tightens the skin, but also stimulates collagen production, resulting in lasting skin improvement.

As we age, the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin lose their elasticity, causing the skin to lose tone and sag. Laser lipolysis works on all layers of the skin – both deep and superficial – and promotes the formation of new tissue, reduces excess fat and stimulates collagen production. The result? An immediately visible tightening of the skin and a long-term improvement in the skin’s appearance, which continues to improve in the months following the treatment.

Areas of application

The effect of laser lipolysis extends to the deeper and more superficial layers of the skin and is ideal for tightening and rejuvenating the following areas of the face and body:

Double chin
Neck
Eyelids: bags under the eyes/ drooping eyelids
Jawline
Cheeks / sagging cheeks
Marionette pleats
Upper arms
Belly
Thigh
Breasts

Laser lipolysis treatment procedure

At the beginning of the treatment, you will have a detailed consultation with our medical specialists, who will ensure that you are suitable for laser lipolysis treatment.

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in our practice in Frankfurt and usually takes 30 to 90 minutes. First, we thoroughly disinfect the areas to be treated. We then insert wafer-thin, disposable optical fibers under the skin, more precisely into the superficial subcutaneous tissue. Only a small puncture is required for the procedure, which usually does not require anesthesia, as the treatment is virtually painless.

During the treatment, we place the laser handpiece specifically on the treated areas and treat them with precise laser pulses.

Advantages

Laser lipolysis treatment offers numerous advantages: it is performed on an outpatient basis and does not require anesthesia – if necessary, gentle cooling is sufficient to calm the skin. As it is a non-surgical procedure, no incisions are required, which minimizes the risk of complications. The results are immediately visible and long-lasting, as collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin is further stimulated. In most cases, only one session is required and recovery time is minimal – most patients can resume their normal daily routine immediately after treatment.

Questions and answers

What is laser lipolysis?

Retinol (vitamin A) peel 4.1%

Anton Horst — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 12:16:08 +0000

A retinol peel is an effective method of renewing the skin and giving it a fresh appearance. Retinol peeling involves applying retinol, also known as vitamin A1, to the skin to stimulate cell renewal and effectively remove dead skin cells. This process promotes collagen production and helps to visibly improve the appearance of fine lines, sun damage, acne and uneven skin tone.

Make an appointment for a retinol peel in Frankfurt today.

NEOSTRATA ® Prosystem Retinol Peel

A unique and professional peeling with 4.1% retinol and the patented Retinol Boosting Complex. Effectively exfoliates, visibly reduces wrinkles and fine lines and minimizes pores. For even, firm and smooth skin.

Retinol and the patented active ingredients Aminofil and NeoCitrate are proven to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and ensure an even and smoother complexion with minimized pores.
Suitable for mild to moderate pigmentation disorders and blemishes.
Please note that a clearly visible peeling effect occurs 2-4 days after peeling.

Application & results

To achieve a visible effect, it is important to perform several peeling sessions at the beginning.

The retinol causes the upper layer of the skin to peel and inhibits matrix metalloproteinases, which simultaneously stimulates the formation of new collagen and increases the production of hyaluronic acid. Bisabolol and 1% vitamin E soothe the skin and neutralize free radicals.

This treatment method offers a wide range of applications for skin health and beauty.

Treatable indications	Expected results
Wrinkles and fine lines incl. Sun damage	Visibly smoother skin
Hyperpigmentation (including melasma)	more even skin tone
Acne scars	Visible improvement
Enlarged pores	Reduced pore size
uneven, rough skin	softer skin
uneven, sallow skin tone	even, radiant skin tone

Before and after results retinol peeling

What factors speak against performing a retinol peel?

Retinol peeling should be avoided if the following health factors are present:

Acute herpes infection or susceptibility to it
Vitamin A intake during the last 6 months
Keloid scars
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Sunburn
High susceptibility to dark pigmentation

Retinol peeling procedure

Unlike with fruit acid, no preparation is necessary. We recommend 3 to 4 peeling sessions at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks, depending on tolerance.

There is no pain, but slight redness is possible. After peeling, direct sunlight should be avoided and at least SPF 50 sunscreen should be used after washing off. Please note that the peeling effect only occurs from day 2 – 3 after peeling. Longer regeneration possible. The skin can be very sensitive.

To maintain the results, we recommend 1 peeling twice a year.

Book a consultation appointment at our practice today!

Allergy blood test

Anton Horst — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 11:01:31 +0000

Allergy blood test - testing using biochip technology

Allergy blood test - your advantages:

In our practice, we offer analysis for allergens in the blood using macroarray diagnostics. This is a modern and precise method for determining allergies in the blood using a microchip. This technology makes it possible to test a large number of allergens simultaneously and thus offers a comprehensive analysis of a patient’s allergic profile. In contrast to conventional individual tests, in which only a few allergens are examined, macroarray diagnostics can determine hundreds of allergens from a single blood sample.

The allergy profile covers 295 allergens and therefore most allergy triggers:

03 Plant-based foods
61 pollen types (tree pollen, herb pollen, grass pollen, cereal pollen)
40 animal foods
24 mite species (house dust mites and storage mites)
20 Animal hair and dandruff
15 Molds and yeasts
9 Insect venom allergens
10 other allergens

How the test procedure works

In macroarray diagnostics, tiny amounts of different allergens are found on a microchip in a defined pattern. The patient’s blood is then passed over this allergen-laden surface. If IgE antibodies against one of the applied allergens are present in the patient’s blood, they bind to the corresponding allergen. A scanner detects the intensity of the signals, which is proportional to the amount of bound antibodies. These signals are then evaluated to determine which allergens the patient is sensitized to and to what extent.

Advantages of the allergy blood test:

Comprehensive analysis: The ability to test many allergens simultaneously enables a comprehensive representation of a patient’s allergic profile. This is particularly useful for patients with many allergies or non-specific symptoms.
Speed and efficiency: The test duration is relatively short. This enables rapid diagnosis and treatment planning.
High sensitivity and specificity: The accuracy of macroarray diagnostics is very high, which leads to reliable results and precise identification of allergens.

Who is the test suitable for?

Patients who suspect an allergy or several triggers, e.g. pollen, house dust or animals
Patients with suspected food intolerance or intolerance/s
Follow-up during or after hyposensitization to certain allergens

Ingrown nails

Anton Horst — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:48:18 +0000

Ingrown toenail treatment in Frankfurt

With ingrown nails, the nail grows into the lateral nail bed. This causes painful inflammation of the nail wall and the surrounding skin. The big toe is most frequently affected.

With our many years of experience and state-of-the-art medical technology, we can help you in our Frankfurt practice to treat ingrown nails sustainably and permanently alleviate your symptoms.

What causes ingrown toenails and how can you protect yourself from them?

Ingrown toenails are caused by a disproportion between the width of the nail and the nail bed. As a result, the lateral part of the nail grows into the lateral nail edge (nail wall) and thus into the skin. Colonization with bacteria of the normal skin flora, as well as moisture and heat, leads to a purulent inflammation in the area of the lateral nail edge (unguis incarnatus, pronychia). This is also facilitated by heavy perspiration and incorrect nail cutting.

The big toe is usually affected because the nail is bordered on the sides by the nail wall and is exposed to the greatest pressure from the shoe. The pressure on the nail edge pushes the nail into the nail fold, where it grows into the sensitive skin and triggers an inflammation. The purulent inflammation also often causes sharp, shooting pains that make wearing shoes very painful. As the nail continues to grow, these complaints no longer disappear by themselves in the advanced stage and require medical clarification.

In some cases, relief can be achieved simply by cutting the nails correctly.

What are the possible triggers for ingrowth?

When nails are cut too short and too round. A straight cut with clear corners can prevent ingrowth.
Foot and nail deformities, such as pincer nails
Moisture and heat build-up in the shoe
Shoes that are too tight or too tight, because this causes strong pressure on the sides of the toes. This causes microtraumas and entry points for germs and bacteria.

Other risk factors that encourage a toenail to grow in:

Overweight (obesity)
Thick legs or water retention in the feet
Venous diseases (chronic venous insufficiency)
Heart failure (cardiac insufficiency)
Diabetes mellitus
Medication
Malpositions of the foot
Genetic predisposition

Surgical removal of ingrown nails with phenolization (cauterization) of the lateral nail root in Frankfurt

If the nail deformation is already too advanced or the inflammation is so severe that immediate action is required, the ingrown nail can also be surgically corrected. We do not remove the nail completely, but cut it out of the nail wall in a wedge shape and thus relieve the severely inflamed tissue.

To prevent the recurrence of an ingrowing nail, a so-called phenol matrix ablation is then performed. In this procedure, a rod soaked in phenol is rotated 3 x 1 min in the area of the nail root, chemically destroying the lateral root. This means that the nail can no longer grow back in the lateral area. This means that the nail can no longer grow into the lateral tissue and inflammation no longer occurs. Depending on the findings and surgical technique, the nail is sutured in or the wound is left open to heal.