One of the most important goals of dermatology is prevention. I reserve a lot of time for each patient’s scheduled appointment. To me the term “prevention” means early detection of all skin diseases that are visible to the naked eye. A special focus will be on early detection of melanoma. Each year, in Germany alone more than 20,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma. This is, in contrast to the non-melanoma skin cancer, due to a degeneration of pigment cells, where the “black” color comes from. However, a melanoma is not necessarily completely black. Also spots with various light and reddish brown zones are suspicious. They are often pigmented and checkered, show no boundaries and no more symmetry. Caution should be exercised in newly formed spots. Genetic factors, but especially long-term exposure to UV light is suspected to be the cause of malignancies. Also the number of moles (melanocytic nevi) increases the risk of developing a melanoma. A simple screening method can detect most of the new cases at an early stage and so avert an unfavorable course. From the age of 35 on, a biennial screening is recommended. In addition to that, you also have the opportunity to attend annual or biannual screenings and participate in our internal recall system to detect even small skin changes as early as possible. During your screening the entire body is scanned for suspicious moles and lesions. In my practice I use an imaging, computer-based method for cataloging your moles and to assess the progress for years to come. Optionally, suspicious moles can be removed surgically in our operating theatre. A subsequent histological examination is performed in an external laboratory.
In my private practice, you also have the opportunity to attend an annual or biannual screenings to detect even small skin changes as early as possible. If you want, you can also participate in our internal recall system and be automatically reminded of your next screening appointment. Please consult our receptionists on your next visit.
For the treatment of pigmented birthmarks or suspicious skin lesions laser methods are permitted and considered malpractice. The evaluation of pigmented birthmarks and skin changes necessarily belongs in the hands of a specialist in dermatology. Despite many years of experience I partake in training with a subsequent exam every year.