What is Cherry Angiomas?
A cherry angioma is a small, red or purple skin growth that is made up of blood vessels. It is harmless and does not cause any symptoms, but some people may want to remove it for cosmetic reasons. Cherry angiomas are more common in older adults, but they can also occur in younger people. The exact cause of cherry angiomas is unknown, but some factors that may contribute to their development are aging, genetics, hormones, and exposure to certain chemicals.
What are the signs of Cherry Angiomas?
- Having a bright red, purple, blue or black growth on the skin that is made up of small blood vessels.
- Having a round, dome-shaped or flat appearance that can vary in size from 1 mm to 5 mm in diameter.
- Being asymptomatic and not causing any pain, itching or discomfort.
- Being more common on the chest, back, stomach and shoulders, but can appear anywhere on the body.
- Being more likely to develop with age, especially after 30 years old.
What treatments are available at the dermatologist for Cherry Angiomas?
Some treatments that are available at the dermatologist for cherry angiomas are:
- Electrocautery: This is a procedure that uses an electric needle to burn away and destroy the blood vessels of the angioma.
- Shave excision: This is a procedure that involves shaving off the angioma and then electrocauterizing the skin beneath.
- Cryosurgery: This is a procedure that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and kill the angioma.
- Laser surgery: This is a procedure that uses a beam of light to vaporize and remove the angioma.
These treatments may cause scarring, bleeding, infection, or changes in skin color. It is important to consult with a dermatologist before deciding to remove cherry angiomas for cosmetic reasons.
How do Cherry Angiomas affect the appearance and function of the skin?
Some possible effects are:
- Cosmetic concern: Cherry angiomas may be bothersome to some people who do not like how they look on their skin. They may affect their self-esteem and confidence, especially if they are large, numerous, or located on visible areas such as the face, neck, or arms.
- Bleeding risk: Cherry angiomas are made of blood vessels and can bleed easily if they are scratched, rubbed, or injured. This can cause pain, infection, or scarring. Bleeding can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as skin cancer.
- Skin function: Cherry angiomas do not usually affect the normal function of the skin, such as protection, sensation, temperature regulation, or vitamin D synthesis. However, in rare cases, they may interfere with these functions if they are very large, numerous, or located on sensitive areas such as the eyelids, lips, or genitals.
FAQ About Cherry Angiomas
Are cherry angiomas a sign of cancer or any other serious condition?
Cherry angiomas are benign and not a sign of cancer. However, they should be checked by a dermatologist if they bleed or change in appearance, as this could be an early indicator of skin cancer or another condition.
How can cherry angiomas be diagnosed and what tests are needed?
Cherry angiomas can usually be diagnosed by their appearance and location on the skin. No tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis, but a dermatologist may perform a skin biopsy to rule out other possible causes of skin lesions.
How common are cherry angiomas and who is more likely to get them?
Cherry angiomas are very common and affect about 50% of adults over 30 years old and 75% of adults over 75 years old. They can occur in anyone regardless of race or sex, but they may have a genetic component and run in families.
What are some natural or alternative remedies for cherry angiomas and do they work?
Some natural or alternative remedies that have been suggested for cherry angiomas are apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, iodine, garlic, lemon juice, and sandalwood oil. However, there is no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness or safety. They may also cause irritation, allergic reactions, or infections on the skin.
Is there a dermatologist near me in Grand Rapids that offers treatment for Cherry Angiomas?
Yes. At our Grand Rapids dermatology office we offers treatment for Cherry Angiomas to patients from Grand Rapids and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.