Cherry angioma

Skin layers — The skin is the largest organ of the body. The skin and its derivatives (hair, nails, sweat and oil glands) make up the integumentary system. One of the main functions of the skin is protection. It protects the body from external factors such as bacteria, chemicals, and temperature. The skin contains secretions that can kill bacteria and the pigment melanin provides a chemical pigment defense against ultraviolet light that can damage skin cells. Another important function of the skin is body temperature regulation. When the skin is exposed to a cold temperature, the blood vessels in the dermis constrict. This allows the blood which is warm, to bypass the skin. The skin then becomes the temperature of the cold it is exposed to. Body heat is conserved since the blood vessels are not diverting heat to the skin anymore. Among its many functions the skin is an incredible organ always protecting the body from external agents.

Also known as: Angioma - cherry and Senile angioma

Definition

A cherry angioma is a noncancerous (benign) skin growth made up of blood vessels.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Cherry angiomas are fairly common skin growths that vary in size. They can occur almost anywhere on the body, but usually develop on the trunk.

They are most common after age 30. The cause is unknown, but they tend to be inherited (genetic).

Symptoms

Skin lesion or growth:

Bright cherry-red
Small -- pinhead size to about 1/4 inch in diameter
Smooth, or can stick out from the skin

Signs and tests

Your health care provider will probably diagnose a cherry angioma based on the appearance of the growth. No further tests are usually necessary, though a skin biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Cherry angiomas usually do not need to be treated. If they are cosmetically unattractive or they bleed often, angiomas may be removed by:

Burning (electrosurgery/cautery)
Freezing (cryotherapy)
Laser
Shave excision

Expectations (prognosis)

Cherry angiomas are noncancerous and generally harmless. Removal usually does not cause scarring.

Complications

Bleeding if they are injured
Changes in appearance
Psychological distress

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:

You have symptoms of a cherry angioma and you would like to have it removed
The appearance of a cherry angioma or any skin lesion changes

References

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier;2009.

Review date:: October 8, 2010
Reviewed by:: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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