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Dermatologist services category: Infections

Ringworm

Ringworm

Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection. The infection is contagious but harmless and can be treated effectively. At Lægerne Danmark, our dermatologists can help with both diagnosis and treatment so you can get rid of the discomfort quickly.

What is ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that appears as red, ring-shaped rashes. The infection is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that lives in the outer layer of the skin.

The rash often has a characteristic ring-shaped appearance, with a more active, red border and a lighter center. It can be itchy, scaly, and spread if left untreated.

Ringworm can appear anywhere on the body, but is most commonly found on the arms, legs, torso, and face. The infection has nothing to do with worms, even though the name might suggest otherwise.

Symptoms of ringworm

Symptoms may vary, but typical signs include:

  • Round or oval red spots on the skin
  • Itching and irritation
  • Flaky or dry skin
  • A rash that spreads gradually
  • A distinct border around the rash

In some cases, the infection may be mild, while in others it may be more widespread and bothersome.

How is ringworm spread?

Ringworm is contagious and can be spread in several ways:

  • Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
  • Contact with infected animals, especially cats and dogs
  • Sharing towels, clothes, or bedding
  • Contact with surfaces in places such as locker rooms and fitness centers

Damp and warm environments increase the risk of transmission and the progression of the infection.

Treatment of ringworm

Ringworm is typically treated with antifungal medications.

  • Local treatment

    • Cream or ointment containing an antifungal agent
    • Apply directly to the affected area
    • Treatment usually lasts 2–4 weeks
  • Tablet therapy

    • May be necessary in cases of widespread or persistent infection
    • Prescribed by a dermatologist

It is important to complete the entire course of treatment, even if your symptoms disappear quickly.

When should you see a dermatologist?

You should consider seeing a dermatologist if the rash does not clear up after treatment, if the infection spreads, or if you are unsure of the diagnosis. It is also advisable to see a doctor if the infection is on your face or scalp, or if several people in your household are infected. An accurate diagnosis is important, as other skin conditions can resemble ringworm.

Consultation with a dermatologist

During a consultation with a dermatologist, your skin will be thoroughly examined. Often, a diagnosis can be made based on appearance alone, but in some cases it may be necessary to take a skin biopsy.

You will receive guidance on the proper treatment, as well as advice on how to avoid infection and recurrence. Your skin type, any previous skin problems, and your overall health will also be taken into account.

How to Prevent Ringworm

There is a lot you can do yourself to reduce the risk of infection:

  • Avoid sharing towels and clothes
  • Keep your skin clean and dry
  • Wash your hands after coming into contact with animals
  • Please wear sandals in public bathrooms and changing rooms
  • Wash bedding and clothing at a high temperature if there is an infection

Good hygiene is an important part of both treatment and prevention.

Advantages of choosing a private dermatologist

When you choose a private dermatologist, you get quick access to specialized care without long wait times. At Lægerne Danmark, we offer a thorough and professional assessment of your skin so you can quickly receive an accurate diagnosis and begin the appropriate treatment.

You’ll receive personalized advice tailored to your needs, along with a clear treatment plan and follow-up care as needed. We prioritize high professional standards and take the time to attend to each patient, so you feel at ease throughout the entire process.

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Book an appointment with our dermatologists today and get prompt treatment for ringworm. You can also book a video consultation if that fits better into your schedule. We’re here to make sure you receive the right treatment and get back on track.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Ringworm

  • What does ringworm look like?

    Ringworm often appears as round or oval patches with a red, distinct border and a lighter center. The rash may be itchy and scaly and can spread over time.

  • Is ringworm contagious?

    Yes, ringworm is contagious and can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, via animals, or through objects such as towels, clothing, and bedding.

  • How is ringworm treated?

    Ringworm is usually treated with an antifungal cream, which is applied to the skin for a period of time. In more severe cases, oral medication may be necessary.

  • How quickly does the treatment work?

    Most people see improvement within a few days to a few weeks, but it is important to complete the entire course of treatment to prevent the infection from returning.

  • Can ringworm go away on its own?

    In some cases, the infection may subside on its own, but it is always recommended to treat ringworm to prevent it from spreading and to avoid prolonged discomfort.

  • Can you get ringworm from animals?

    Yes, pets such as cats and dogs can be sources of infection. If you suspect that you have been infected by an animal, both you and the animal should be treated.

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Cellulitis (skin infection)

Cellulitis (skin infection)

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissue. The condition typically causes redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area and often requires treatment with antibiotics. At Lægerne Danmark, our dermatologists thoroughly assess the symptoms and help provide fast and appropriate treatment.

What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is an acute bacterial infection of the skin and underlying connective tissue. The infection typically occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, such as a wound, insect bite, cut, or dry, cracked skin.

The most common bacteria behind cellulitis are streptococci and staphylococci, which are normally found on the skin but can cause infection if the skin's natural barrier is broken.

Cellulitis is often seen on the legs, but can occur anywhere on the body. The infection typically develops quickly and can spread if not treated in time.

Typical symptoms are:

  • Redness of the skin
  • Swelling and warmth in the area
  • Tenderness or pain
  • Fever and general malaise in some cases

Consultation with a dermatologist

If cellulitis is suspected, our dermatologist will perform a thorough clinical assessment of the skin and symptoms. The diagnosis is usually based on the typical appearance and course of the disease.

During the consultation, the doctor will assess, among other things:

  • how widespread the infection is
  • if there are signs of complications
  • whether antibiotic treatment is necessary
  • possible causes of the infection

In some cases, further tests may be necessary, especially if the symptoms are atypical or if the infection recurs. Early assessment ensures that treatment can begin quickly and reduces the risk of the infection spreading.

Treatment of cellulitis

The treatment of cellulitis depends on the severity of the infection.

In most cases, the condition is treated with antibiotics, which are either administered as tablets or, in more serious cases, the patient is referred to a hospital.

Treatment may typically include:

  • Antibiotics

    The primary treatment for bacterial skin infections. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection.

  • Pain relief

    For pain, regular painkillers can be used as recommended by your doctor.

  • Calm and elevation

    If the infection is on your leg or arm, it may help to keep the area still and elevated to reduce swelling.

Most people experience a noticeable improvement within a few days of starting treatment.

Risk factors

Certain conditions can increase the risk of developing cellulitis. This applies, for example, if the skin's natural protection is weakened or if the body's immune system is compromised.

Examples of risk factors may include:

  • Wounds, cuts, or insect bites
  • Dry or cracked skin
  • Athlete's foot or other skin infections
  • Swollen legs or poor venous circulation
  • Diabetes
  • Weakened immune system

In some people, cellulitis can occur repeatedly. In these cases, it may be important to identify and treat the underlying cause.

Advantages of choosing a private dermatologist

When you choose a private dermatologist, you get quick access to specialized assessment and treatment without long waiting times. This means that skin infections such as cellulitis can be assessed and treated quickly.

At Lægerne Danmark, we emphasize high professionalism and ample time for each individual patient. During the consultation, we will review your symptoms, skin condition, and any risk factors.

You will receive a thorough assessment and an individual treatment plan to ensure that the infection is treated correctly and the risk of recurrence is minimized.

Prevention

Although cellulitis cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk of infection.

This could include:

  • to keep the skin clean and well cared for
  • to treat wounds and cuts quickly
  • using moisturizer on dry skin
  • to treat athlete's foot or other skin problems

If you have had cellulitis in the past, preventive skin care may be particularly important.

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Make an appointment with our dermatologists today and get a thorough assessment of your symptoms. Prompt treatment can limit the infection and ensure a safe and effective course of treatment.

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Frequently asked questions about cellulitis (skin infection)

  • Is cellulitis dangerous?

    Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics. However, if left untreated, the infection can spread to deeper tissues or the bloodstream. It is therefore important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, or fever.

  • What does cellulite look like?

    Cellulitis typically appears as a red, swollen, and warm area on the skin. The skin may be tender or painful, and the redness may spread over time. In some cases, fever, chills, or general malaise may also occur.

    The infection is often seen on the lower legs, but can occur on any part of the body.

  • What is the difference between cellulitis and erysipelas?

    Cellulitis and erysipelas are both bacterial skin infections, but they affect different layers of the skin.

    Rosacea is more superficial in the skin and often has clearly defined redness. Cellulitis, on the other hand, affects deeper layers of the skin and connective tissue and can have more diffuse boundaries.

    The symptoms can be similar, and it often requires a medical assessment to distinguish between the two conditions.

  • How is cellulitis treated?

    Treatment usually consists of antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection. In mild cases, treatment is given in tablet form, while more serious infections may require hospital treatment with antibiotics administered directly into the bloodstream.

    It is often recommended to keep the affected area still and, if possible, raise the arm or leg to reduce swelling.

  • How quickly does the treatment work?

    Most people experience improvement within 24–72 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. However, redness and swelling may take longer to disappear completely.

    If your symptoms do not improve after a few days, or if they worsen, you should contact a doctor again.

  • Can cellulitis go away on its own?

    Cellulitis rarely goes away on its own and usually requires antibiotic treatment. Without treatment, the infection can spread and cause more serious symptoms.

    Therefore, you should always seek medical attention if you suspect cellulitis.

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Scabies

Scabies: symptoms and treatment

Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by a microscopic mite that lives in the skin. The condition often causes intense itching and rashes, and it is typically spread through close skin contact between people. Although scabies can be uncomfortable, it can be effectively treated with the right medical treatment.

At Lægerne Danmark, our dermatologists can help with diagnosis, treatment, and advice on how to prevent infection.

What is scabies?

Scabies is a skin infection caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The mite burrows small tunnels in the upper layer of the skin, where it lays eggs. It is the body's immune response to the mite and its waste products that causes itching and skin irritation.

Scabies is primarily transmitted through close and prolonged skin contact, e.g. between family members, partners, or people who live in close quarters for long periods of time. Transmission can also occur via bedding, clothing, or towels, but this is less common.

The disease can affect people of all ages and occurs in both children and adults.

Symptoms of scabies

The most common symptoms of scabies are:

Intense itching
The itching is often worst at night and can be very uncomfortable.


Small red bumps, blisters, or skin irritation.

Small tunnels in the skin
The scabies mite creates thin, winding tunnels in the skin, which can be seen as fine lines.

Typical areas on the body

Scabies is often seen in the following areas:

  • Between the fingers
  • Wrist
  • Elbows
  • Armpits
  • Around the navel
  • Buttocks and genitals

In children, it can also be seen on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and face.

Symptoms typically appear 2–6 weeks after infection, but in people who have had scabies before, symptoms may appear more quickly.

Diagnosis by a dermatologist

Scabies can often be diagnosed by a clinical assessment of the skin and symptoms. The dermatologist will typically examine the skin for characteristic burrows and rashes.

In some cases, the diagnosis can be confirmed by taking a small skin sample or by using dermatoscopy, where the skin is examined under magnification.

A correct diagnosis is important because scabies can be confused with other skin conditions such as eczema or allergic reactions.

Treatment of scabies

Scabies is treated with medication that kills the mites.

The most commonly used treatments are:

  • Scabies cream (permethrin)

    • Apply to the entire body
    • Should typically remain on the skin for 8–12 hours
    • The treatment is often repeated after 7 days.
  • Tablet treatment (ivermectin)

    • Can be used in certain cases
    • Often in cases of widespread scabies or if cream treatment is not effective

It is important that all members of the household or close contacts are treated at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms.

The itching may continue for several weeks after treatment, even though the mites are gone. This is due to the skin's reaction and does not necessarily mean that the treatment has not worked.

Prevention of infection

To prevent scabies from spreading or recurring, it is important to follow a few simple precautions:

  • Washing textiles

    Clothes, bedding, and towels should be washed at a minimum of 60°C.

  • Avoid close contact until treatment

    Close skin contact should be avoided until everyone has been treated.

  • Cleaning in the home

    Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floors.

  • Textiles that cannot be washed

    Can be stored in a sealed bag for at least 3 days to kill the mites.

Good hygiene and proper handling of all contacts are essential to stop the chain of infection.

When should you see a dermatologist?

You should consider contacting a dermatologist if:

  • The itching is intense and especially worse at night.
  • Several people in the household have itching or rashes
  • Symptoms do not disappear after treatment
  • The diagnosis is uncertain.

A dermatologist can make the correct diagnosis and ensure that the treatment is appropriate.

Advantages of choosing a private dermatologist

When you choose a private dermatologist, you get quick access to specialized assessment and treatment without long waiting times.

At Lægerne Danmark, we emphasize high professional standards and ample time for each individual patient. You will receive a thorough examination and advice on both treatment and prevention, so you can confidently move forward with your treatment.

Our dermatologists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including scabies, eczema, and other skin infections.

Book now

Make an appointment with our dermatologists today and receive a professional assessment and effective treatment for scabies.

You can choose between a physical consultation or a video consultation, so you can quickly get advice and guidance without having to show up in person.

Book now

Frequently asked questions about scabies

  • How is scabies transmitted?

    Scabies is primarily transmitted through close and prolonged skin contact between people. This can occur, for example, between family members, partners, or people who live in close proximity for long periods of time. In rare cases, infection can occur via bedding, towels, or clothing.

  • What does scabies look like?

    Scabies typically manifests as small red bumps, rashes, or fine, thin lines on the skin. The lines caused by the scabies mite can resemble small, twisted lines. The rash is often found between the fingers, on the wrists, elbows, armpits, around the navel, as well as on the buttocks and in the genital area.

  • How long does it take for symptoms of scabies to appear?

    In people who have not previously had scabies, symptoms typically appear 2–6 weeks after infection. If you have had scabies before, symptoms may appear after just a few days.

  • How long does scabies itch after treatment?

    Itching may continue for several weeks after treatment, even though the mites have been removed. This is due to the skin's reaction to the mites and their waste products. If the itching persists or worsens, you should contact a doctor.

  • Should the whole family be treated for scabies?

    Yes. If one person in the household has scabies, it is usually recommended that everyone in the household be treated at the same time. This also applies to people without symptoms, as the disease can be contagious before the itching starts.

  • Can I have a video consultation?

    Yes. At Lægerne Danmark, you can have a video consultation with our dermatologist if you suspect you have scabies. This allows you to get quick advice, an assessment of your symptoms, and guidance on treatment without having to physically visit the clinic.

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Warts

Warts

Warts are small skin changes caused by viruses, which can be uncomfortable, itchy, or cosmetically visible. At Lægerne Danmark, our dermatologists offer professional assessment and targeted treatment to provide relief and reduce the risk of new outbreaks.

What are warts?

Warts occur as a result of infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) on the surface of the skin. They can vary in size and shape and often appear on the hands, feet, or other parts of the body.

Warts can be both uncomfortable and contagious. Some disappear slowly on their own, while others require treatment. An early assessment by our dermatologists ensures proper treatment and reduces the risk of infection and recurring warts.

Why do people get warts?

When the HPV virus enters the skin through small cracks or damage to the surface, it can infect skin cells and cause small skin changes to grow.

The risk of developing warts increases if the skin's natural barrier is weakened or if the skin is exposed to moist environments, such as swimming pools or sweaty shoes. Warts can occur in both children and adults, and although some disappear on their own, proper treatment by a dermatologist can help remove them faster and reduce the risk of infection.

How do warts develop on the skin?

When the HPV virus enters the skin, it affects the skin cells, causing them to divide faster than normal. This increased cell production leads to the formation of a small, hard skin lesion, known as a wart.

The surface of a wart may vary in appearance depending on the type and location, but the process behind all warts is the same: the virus alters the normal cell growth of the skin and triggers a local skin change.

Types of warts

  • Common warts

    Typically on hands and fingers

  • Foot warts (plantar warts)

    Hard and sometimes painful on the sole of the foot

  • Flat warts

    Small and often on the face, arms, or legs

  • Genital warts

    Occurs on the genitals

Infection and prevention

Warts are contagious through skin contact or sharing towels, footwear, or similar items. We provide specific advice on prevention so that you can reduce the risk of new warts and infection to others.

When should you seek treatment for warts?

Treatment of warts may be appropriate in several situations. It may be necessary if the warts are painful, as is often the case with foot warts, or if they spread to other areas of the skin.

Treatment should also be considered if the warts do not disappear after several months, are located in a cosmetically sensitive area, or if you want to reduce the risk of infecting others. An assessment by our dermatologists ensures that you receive the most effective and gentle treatment, tailored to both the type and location of the warts.

How our dermatologists can help you

Our dermatologists begin with a thorough assessment of your warts, examining their type, size, and location to ensure that we choose the most effective treatment. The treatment is tailored to you and the location of the warts and may include freezing, laser treatment, salicylic acid, or other relevant methods with the aim of quickly relieving and removing the warts.

In addition, we provide advice on skin care and small changes in your daily routine, as well as tips on how to avoid infection and reduce the risk of new warts. We follow you closely throughout the entire process, answer your questions, and tailor the treatment to suit you, both physically and via video consultation.

Make an appointment with a dermatologist

Do you have bothersome or painful warts, or do you find that your warts are not going away? Make an appointment with our dermatologists and get a thorough assessment, targeted treatment, and specific advice on prevention.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can warts disappear on their own?

    Yes, some warts go away on their own over time, but others require treatment to disappear.

  • Are warts always contagious?

    Warts are contagious, but the risk can be reduced with proper treatment and prevention in everyday life.

  • What treatment works best for plantar warts?

    Treatment depends on the type of wart, its location, and severity. Our dermatologists will assess your situation and choose the most effective method.

  • Can warts come back after treatment?

    It can happen, but proper treatment and prevention reduce the risk of new outbreaks.

  • Can I have a video consultation?

    Yes, we offer assessment and advice via video consultation, e.g. for less visible or new warts.

  • How long does it take to remove warts?

    The time depends on the type, size, and location. Some warts disappear after a few treatments, while others require several treatments over weeks or months to achieve full effect.

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