Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas are benign, non-cancerous growths of blood vessels that appear as small, red or purple spots on the skin. They are one of the most common types of vascular lesions in adults and tend to increase in number as people age. Though they are typically harmless, their appearance can sometimes raise cosmetic concerns.

Key Features of Cherry Angiomas:

• Key Features of Cherry Angiomas:
  • Color: Cherry angiomas are usually bright red, though they can also appear purple or blue, depending on the depth of the blood vessels.
  • Shape & Texture: They are typically round or oval and can range in size from a tiny dot to larger, raised bumps. The surface is generally smooth, but they can sometimes become slightly bumpy or feel a bit raised.
  • Size: Most cherry angiomas are small, typically between 1-5 millimeters in diameter, though some can grow larger.
• Location:
  • They can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the torso, arms, and shoulders.
  • They are especially common on the chest and back, but they can also appear on the face or neck in some cases.
• Causes:
  • Genetics: Cherry angiomas can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
  • Aging: The frequency of cherry angiomas increases with age, especially after the age of 30, and they become more common as people get older.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or with the use of oral contraceptives, can sometimes cause an increase in cherry angiomas.
  • Environmental Factors: While not fully understood, certain environmental factors might contribute to the formation of cherry angiomas.
• Symptoms:
  • In most cases, cherry angiomas are asymptomatic, meaning they don't cause pain or discomfort.
  • Occasionally, they might bleed if injured, but this is generally not a major concern.
  • The main concern for people with cherry angiomas is cosmetic, as some may find the appearance of these spots undesirable, particularly if they appear in visible areas.
• Diagnosis:
  • Visual Inspection: Cherry angiomas are usually diagnosed by a healthcare provider through visual examination. Their characteristic red or purple color and round shape are distinctive.
  • Biopsy: In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other types of lesions or conditions if there is any concern.
• Treatment Options:
  • Laser Therapy: A common and effective treatment that uses a laser to destroy the blood vessels causing the angioma. It often leaves no scarring.
  • Electrosurgery: Involves using an electric current to remove the angioma.
  • Cryotherapy: Freezing the angioma with liquid nitrogen can also be used to treat it.
  • Shaving or Excision: In some cases, the angioma may be shaved or excised surgically if it's large or bothersome.
• Prognosis:
  • Cherry angiomas are generally harmless and don't pose any health risk. They typically don’t grow into cancerous growths, and most people live with them without issues.
  • Once treated, cherry angiomas typically don't reappear in the same area, though new ones may develop elsewhere on the body over time.
• When to Seek Medical Advice:
  • Bleeding: If a cherry angioma begins to bleed frequently, it might need medical attention to prevent complications.
  • Sudden Changes: If you notice sudden changes in size, shape, or color, or if the angioma becomes painful, you should consult a healthcare provider to rule out other conditions.

Summary:

Cherry angiomas are common, harmless, and generally don't require treatment unless they cause bleeding, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns. If you notice any unusual changes in a cherry angioma or have multiple new growths appearing over time, it’s always a good idea to consult a oncodermatologist for further evaluation.