Cherry angiomas
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Cherry angiomas are common skin growths that can appear on most areas of your body. They are small, round, and bright red, and they are most commonly found on people over 30 years old. These growths are made up of small blood vessels, which gives them their characteristic red color. Cherry angiomas are benign (non-cancerous) and are generally harmless. They often increase in number with age, and it is common to develop more of them over time.
AboutSymptoms, Causes and Treatments
Symptoms
- Bright red bumps, usually small in size
- Typically appear on the torso, arms, legs, and shoulders
- May be flat or slightly raised
- Usually painless, though they can bleed if scratched, rubbed, or injured
Causes
The exact cause of cherry angiomas is not known, but they are thought to be related to aging and may be genetic.
Treatments
- Generally, no treatment is needed unless the angiomas bleed or are bothersome.
- Removal options include laser therapy, electrosurgery, and cryotherapy, which are safe and effective but typically pursued only for cosmetic reasons or if the angioma is prone to bleeding.
When to See a Dermatologist
While cherry angiomas are harmless, any skin growth that changes in size, shape, or color, or that bleeds frequently, should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out other conditions. Our team takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to each case, and we’re happy to examine any spot that concerns you and discuss removal options if you’d like a cherry angioma treated.
Symptoms, Causes and Treatments