
What does it mean to have a cherry angioma on the face? Is it dangerous? If you notice a small red dot on your face or any parts of your skin, it could be a cherry angioma. First of all, you do not have to worry. Most of these red spots do not indicate skin cancer. However, it is still significant to keep an eye on them. This article will help you understand all about Cherry angiomas, including the right time to see a doctor.
Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas are also referred to as senile angiomas, de Morgan spots, or Campbell de Morgan spots. They are noncancerous, common skin growths comprised of small blood vessels inside, making them a reddish appearance looking like a red mole. In fact, cherry angiomas are the most common type of angioma and can develop on any area of the body but often appear on the trunk.
Symptoms of Campbell De Morgan Spots
The most common symptoms of cherry angioma may include:
- Having a slightly raised or flat appearance. The flat senile angioma mix into the skin more easily. As you age, this flat angioma will generally elevate.
- Have a bright red growth or mole on your skin. However, these angiomas may appear in other colours such as purple, blue, or black.
- Firm red spot, especially the centre of angioma
- Various sizes. A cherry angioma can be a pinhead size or a quarter of an inch in diameter.
- The appearance of angioma should remain consistent over time. If there are any changes, talk to your doctor as it may indicate another issue.
Causes of Cherry Angiomas
The reason for cherry angiomas is primarily unknown. However, like any other medical condition, they tend to run in families. Other than a genetic factor, here are some aspects that may increase your possibility to have a cherry angioma:
Age: People over 30 years are more prone to develop this type of skin growth.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Incidence of cherry angiomas are common among women after pregnancy.
Liver problem: Cherry angiomas are also common in people who have liver damage or disease. In fact, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends that when cherry angiomas are present in incredible amounts, they can be a warning sign of liver problems.
Underlying Conditions: A cherry angioma may appear because of other underlying issues such as higher total cholesterol levels.
Are Cherry Angiomas Dangerous?
Cherry angiomas are noncancerous skin growths. Generally, they develop when the blood vessel is clustering on the skin. They can signify certain health conditions, climate factors, chemical exposure, pregnancy, or age. In fact, as you get older, cherry angioma can also increase in number.
In addition, a cherry angioma should not cause any worry since they are harmless. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you notice the following:
- A sudden outbreak of multiple lesions together
- If it feels uncomfortable
- When cherry angioma starts to bleed
- If you notice changes in appearance
How To Treat Cherry Angiomas
You probably will not need to get treatment for cherry angioma. However, there is always an option to remove it for cosmetic reasons.
Some people may want to remove their cherry angioma, especially if it is in a part where it can be bumped easily, causing regular bleeding.
In any case, here are the following standard procedures for eliminating red moles.
Cryosurgery
This surgery includes freezing the angioma with fluid nitrogen. The excess cold will cause destruction to it. Cryosurgery is popular for being a fast and relatively simple treatment.
Generally, you just need one treatment session to work this method. The doctor often sprays the liquid nitrogen for only about 10 seconds. As a matter of fact, the wound does not need a lot of care after that.
Electrocauterization
This surgical technique includes burning the angioma with an electric current produced by a small probe. In electrocauterization, you will likewise need a grounding cushion set somewhere on your body to ground the rest of your body from a surge of electricity.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgical treatment incorporates using a pulsed dye laser (PDL) to remove the cherry angioma on the face. The PDL is a concentrated yellow laser that radiates sufficient hotness to annihilate the sore. This technique is fast, and the doctor can perform this treatment as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will not need to sleep in the hospital or stay overnight.
Furthermore, the laser treatment may require sessions between one and three, depending on how many angiomas you have. Be aware that this method can create slight bruising, which should subside little by little within 10 days.
Shave Excision
Shave excision removes the angioma from the upper part of the skin. This treatment is an option to invasive surgery that includes cutting out the growth and applying stitches to close the wound.
These treatments are some of the possible approaches to remove angiomas on the face. Though scarring is uncommon, keep in mind that it is always possible for any treatment affecting the skin.
Looking For Medical Treatment For Cherry Angiomas
A cherry angioma will not disappear all alone. Yet, it is also not going to cause you any issues. Bleeding from time to time is possible, especially if it is irritated.
However, if you notice any changes in appearance, schedule an appointment with a doctor or dermatologist. It is crucial to have any form of growth or lesion checked out when its appearance changes. The doctor will do a biopsy, which includes eliminating a small or entire lesion, to provide medical advice on your condition.
In any case, our team of experienced and compassionate professionals can help patients face serious conditions, such as cancer. So if you know someone who needs quality patient care, our office is always happy to provide meaningful, excellent service.
References:
An Overview of Cherry Angioma.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/cherry-angioma-symptoms-causes-diagnosis-treatment-4687686
Pulsed Dye Laser.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/pulsed-dye-laser
How to get rid of cherry angiomas.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-cherry-angiomas#treatments