Fibroider (Frankfurt and Wiesbaden)

Why do fibromas develop?

Fibromas are benign nodules (“new growths”) made up of connective or other supporting tissue. A fibroma is the result of excessive activity by cells that form connective tissue, called fibroblasts. These cells are found in all connective tissues of the human body. A fibroma is benign, meaning it is not cancerous.

Where do fibromas occur?

Fibromas usually occur individually and only in certain areas of the body; however, if they spread throughout the entire body, doctors refer to this as fibromatosis.

Most fibromas develop on the skin's surface without any apparent cause. Treatment is often unnecessary, as fibromas generally do not cause any symptoms. Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially if a new nodule appears – they can often identify harmless fibromas at a glance.

Our team at the Medical Laser Center looks forward to welcoming you to our practice in Frankfurt or Wiesbaden.

Forms and types

Fibroma: Skin tag

Soft fibromas (fibroma molle) are usually stalked skin protrusions (fibroma pendulum) that otherwise differ little or not at all in appearance from the surrounding tissue. These growths are predominantly found on the eyelids, neck, or armpits of almost every middle-aged person. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and are sometimes brownish in color. Soft fibromas are also commonly referred to as skin tags because they often protrude from the skin like a stalk.

Hard fibroid

In contrast, hard fibromas (fibroma durum) protrude only slightly above the skin level (papule), as the connective tissue proliferates in a deeper layer of the skin. They can be skin-colored, pink, or brown and occur primarily on the legs.

Symptoms

A fibroma usually protrudes from the skin, which is why it's also called a skin tag. These growths are typically skin-colored or darker. However, if they are twisted, blood vessels can be damaged, causing them to turn bluish-red or even black. Very large or numerous fibromas can significantly affect one's appearance. Some fibromas are accompanied by symptoms such as pain and tenderness when touched.

Treatment

To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor can examine the growth more closely with a special magnifying instrument (dermatoscope). If it remains unclear whether it is a fibroma or not, a dermatologist may take a tissue sample (biopsy). This usually involves completely removing the growth under local anesthesia, and then examining the tissue under a microscope.

Since fibromas are often located in visible areas of the body, they can be a cosmetic concern. If necessary, a skin tag can be surgically removed. Fibroma removal is a relatively simple procedure with few complications. Nevertheless, you should definitely avoid removing skin tags yourself, as this carries a higher risk of infection.

There is also a non-invasive skin removal procedure available.

Papilloma

A papilloma is a benign tumor that originates in the uppermost layers of the skin or mucous membranes of an organism. Papillomas are found, for example, on the skin of the body surface, in the urinary tract, in the ducts of the female breast and other glands, or on the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, sinuses, or in the gastrointestinal tract (villous adenoma). Papillomas have a cauliflower-like appearance and can grow up to one centimeter in size. Histological examination reveals a vascularized, finger-like branched stroma with normal superficial squamous epithelium. Viral infections or mechanical irritation are suspected as causes.