Cherry angioma develops on the skin for unknown reasons. They are described as red cherry-like growths on the skin in different sizes that occur most frequently on the trunks. These masses develop suddenly but are benign, which means they don’t cause any harm. People who are in their 40s are widely affected by these non-cancerous tumors.
Treatment is not always necessary for cherry angioma. There is nothing that can be done to prevent it from occurring either. But people generally want them removed because they are unsightly. Moreover, these growths sometimes bleed profusely when scratched or injured. Treatments do not lead to scarring and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Causes of Cherry Angioma
Experts do not know why cherry angioma forms and there has not been any extensive study done to fully understand it due to its harmless nature. Each growth is primarily made up of blood vessels, and experts believe that it develops when new blood vessels or veins are being formed. It had been found out that certain compounds can cause cherry angioma to develop, among these are:
- Bromides
- Cyclosporine
- 2-butoxyethanol
- Mustard gas
Cherry angioma may form singularly or in clusters almost anywhere in the body, such as the face, neck, arms and legs. However, it is more frequently found in the trunk or torso. Moreover, young and adults alike can develop cherry-like growths but studies have shown that it is more common among people in their 40s and tends to intensify with age.
How does Cherry Angioma look ?
This skin condition got its name from its cherry-like appearance that is smooth and could be as small as the size of a pinhead. However, they may slowly grow and appear as spongy bumps. They are also referred to as Campbell de Morgan spots or senile angioma. Cherry angioma appearing in clusters is called polypoid angioma and looks like a big mole. Since it is primarily made up of blood vessels, sufferers should not injure them because they may bleed profusely.
Cherry Angioma Removal
Because it does not lead to medical emergency, cherry angioma removal is performed, generally, for cosmetic purposes. It is also done if the growth is bleeding. Removal does not leave any scar. Among the available options are:
- Freezing
This is medically known as cryotherapy in which liquid nitrogen is administered by means of a spray gun to freeze the growth.
- Burning
This is popularly known as electrosurgery, a less invasive surgical procedure involving an electric needle in removing the cherry-like growths.
- Pulsed Dye Laser
This removal procedure involves a sharp ray of light focused on the growth to obliterate the blood cells.
These cherry-like masses will recur even after treatment, so the patient would do well to consult a dermatologist to determine the best removal procedure to be employed. Home remedies for cherry angioma are available as well, although these may take some time for the results to be evident. Even so, they have been proven to provide long-term results. Natural remedies simply involve eating foods high in Vitamin A and E and keeping the skin healthy .
Cherry Angioma Pictures
