Cherry/Red Skin Growth (Cherry Angioma) and How To Treat It

Cherry angiomas, also known as senile angiomas or Campbell de Morgan spots, are common benign skin growths that affect people of all ages. They are characterized by small, bright red or purple bumps that appear on the skin's surface. Though they are usually harmless, understanding their causes, symptoms, and available treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions about their skin health. In this article, we delve into cherry angiomas, shedding light on their nature and how to manage them.

What is Cherry Angioma?
Cherry angiomas are non-cancerous growths made up of clusters of dilated capillaries (small blood vessels) near the skin's surface. They can vary in size from a tiny pinpoint to a few millimeters in diameter. These lesions are most commonly found on the trunk, arms, shoulders, and face. They typically start as small red dots and may darken or grow over time, eventually becoming more noticeable.

Causes of Cherry Angioma
The exact cause of cherry angiomas is not fully understood. However, there are several factors that could contribute to their development. Genetics may play a role, as these growths tend to run in families. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or aging, can also trigger their formation. Additionally, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds may increase the risk of developing cherry angiomas.

Common Symptoms
Cherry angiomas are typically painless and do not cause any discomfort. They are most recognizable by their characteristic appearance – small, bright red or purple, round or oval-shaped bumps on the skin. These growths can be smooth or slightly raised and may have a distinct cherry-like appearance, which gives them their name. While they are harmless on their own, they can sometimes bleed if scratched or injured.

When to Seek Medical Advice
In most cases, cherry angiomas do not require medical attention. However, it is essential to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional if any skin growth exhibits sudden changes in appearance, such as rapid growth, bleeding, or a significant change in color. A medical evaluation will help rule out other potential skin conditions and ensure the proper management of the angioma.

Treatment Options
As cherry angiomas are generally harmless, treatment is not necessary unless for cosmetic or medical reasons. For those seeking removal due to aesthetic concerns or discomfort, several treatment options are available:

a. Laser Therapy: Laser treatment can effectively remove cherry angiomas by targeting the blood vessels that make up the growth. It is a safe and non-invasive procedure that leaves minimal scarring.

b. Electrocautery: In this method, an electric current is used to heat the blood vessels, causing them to seal and the angioma to shrink. It is a quick procedure that may cause minor scabbing, which heals within a few weeks.

c. Cryotherapy: Cherry angiomas can be frozen off using liquid nitrogen, causing them to fall off over time. This procedure is relatively quick and straightforward.

d. Shave Excision: For larger cherry angiomas, a dermatologist may use a scalpel or razor blade to shave off the growth. This method may require local anesthesia.

Conclusion

Cherry angiomas are common skin growths that are usually benign and harmless. While their exact cause remains unknown, genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, and UV exposure may contribute to their development. Typically, cherry angiomas do not require medical treatment, but removal options are available for those seeking cosmetic or symptomatic relief. If you are concerned about any skin growth, it is best to seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

[DIYsidekick]

Sis, forget the video. Your skin is flawless! Absolutely beautiful and gorgeous. 😊

[odeanlawrence]

Yes, I have 2 tiny Cherry Angiomas on my breast. Thank you for the info, I had no idea what they were!

[optimistic]

I got those in my 20s now it's growing really fast at the age of 23 i have lakhs nd lakhs on my hands

[kenihow]

Why not show what it look like on several skin tones. it surely wouldn't look like that on your skin.

[slam-and-sprinkle]

I get these and I know they’re benign, but I wish we would start thinking of them as not only as a cosmetic issue. I have several that bleed very easily and because insurance considers this a cosmetic issue, I cannot get them cauterized at the doctor. 😩

[TechnoBoizzz]

I have hundreds on my arms :( They sent me into a dark place before I knew what they were.. still want to see a dermatologist to make sure

[firstname]

What causes bumps am the outside of your arm especially the the upper part that is close to the shoulder

[vereyrarayne]

I went to see a dermatologist yesterday, as what looks like petechiae was starting to appear in various places on my body, getting more and more, which after a doctor told me it was petechiae I started to panic because that can be a sign of cancer, which triggered my anxiety and I've been living in a constant state of panic, thinking for the worst, UK healthcare may be free, but it doesn't mean it is good healthcare, I've been fogged off so many times without any care to my mental health or well being, some treated me like I was going mad, I left my dermatology appointment feeling a huge weight lifted, it wasn't petechiae at all but angioma. What people forget to tell you is that angioma can be flat, they're not always raised and you can also get them under the skin.

[mmari]

I do have a question. I’m 15 years old and got this small circular, raised, light red dot on my cheek. It’s not as dark as the dot that appears in the first picture, it’s closer to a pink color. Should this be something I worry about, or no?

[VJ]

Im suddenly getting them n they r soo cute compared to black moles

[surgem]

I heard sometime they are caused by liver issues ?

[KeyKeyJournals]

Daughter was just born with one I was so scared because it was bright but it’s starting to go away

[jellyclub]

I think i have one on my leg had a heart attack😭

[roxydes]

We do it at home lady no need to spend our money for the same results