What Are Cherry Angiomas?
Cherry angiomas, also known as senile angiomas or Campbell de Morgan spots, are common benign (non-cancerous) growths on the skin. These red or purple spots are made up of clusters of blood vessels and can vary in size, typically appearing as small, raised bumps. While they are usually harmless, they may be a cosmetic concern for some individuals.
How Do Cherry Angiomas Form?
Cherry angiomas develop when blood vessels in the skin dilate and form a small cluster. The exact cause of cherry angiomas is not fully understood, but there are several factors that may contribute to their formation, including:
- Age: Cherry angiomas become more common with age, typically appearing in individuals over the age of 30.
- Genetics: If you have family members with cherry angiomas, you may be more likely to develop them yourself.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy or the use of certain medications may trigger the formation of cherry angiomas in some people.
Common Symptoms and Appearance
- Color: Cherry angiomas are usually red, purple, or dark blue in color.
- Shape: They are often round or oval and may appear as flat or raised spots on the skin.
- Size: Most cherry angiomas are small, ranging from a pinpoint size to about a quarter of an inch in diameter, but some can grow larger over time.
- Location: These growths can appear anywhere on the body but are commonly found on the torso, arms, and legs.
Are Cherry Angiomas Dangerous?
In most cases, cherry angiomas are completely benign and do not pose any health risks. They are not cancerous and do not lead to more serious conditions. However, if a cherry angioma changes in appearance (such as growing rapidly, bleeding, or becoming painful), it's important to consult with a dermatologist to rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for Cherry Angiomas
Although cherry angiomas are not medically necessary to remove, some individuals choose to treat them for cosmetic reasons. Aspen Dermatology offers several safe and effective treatment options to remove or reduce the appearance of cherry angiomas:
- Laser Treatment:
- Laser therapy, such as pulsed dye lasers, can target the blood vessels within the angioma, breaking them down and causing the spot to fade or disappear. This treatment is quick, minimally invasive, and requires little downtime.
- Electrosurgery:
- This technique uses a small electric current to remove the angioma. It is a precise method that cauterizes the blood vessels, preventing bleeding during the procedure.
- Cryotherapy (Freezing):
- Cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen to the cherry angioma, which freezes the blood vessels, causing the growth to shrink and fall off over time.
- Shave Excision:
- For larger or thicker angiomas, a shave excision may be performed. The growth is removed with a scalpel, and the area is typically closed with a bandage or dressing.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
You should consult a dermatologist at Aspen Dermatology if:
- A cherry angioma changes in size, shape, or color.
- You experience any pain, discomfort, or bleeding from a cherry angioma.
- You have concerns about the appearance of a cherry angioma and want to explore removal options.
