Have you ever noticed tiny red spots on your skin? They could be cherry hemangiomas, which are common and harmless growths that can appear anywhere on the body, but are most often found on the chest, back, and abdomen of people over the age of 30.

What are Cherry Hemangiomas?

Cherry hemangiomas, also known as senile angiomas or Campbell de Morgan spots, are benign skin growths that consist of clusters of small blood vessels. They get their name from their bright red, cherry-like appearance.

While they are harmless and do not require treatment, some people may choose to have them removed for aesthetic reasons, or if they become irritated or bleed easily.

However, it’s important to note that removing cherry hemangiomas does not prevent new ones from forming.

Causes of Cherry Hemangiomas

The exact cause of cherry hemangiomas is unknown, but they are believed to be related to aging, genetics, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. They are more common in people over the age of 30 and tend to run in families.

Women are also more likely to develop them than men.

Symptoms of Cherry Hemangiomas

Cherry hemangiomas are typically small, round, and uniform in size, ranging from a pinhead to a pencil eraser in diameter. They may be slightly raised or flat, and do not usually cause any pain, itching, or other symptoms.

However, some people may experience bleeding or crusting of the hemangioma, especially if it is located in an area that is easily irritated, such as the scalp, face, or neck.

Diagnosis of Cherry Hemangiomas

Cherry hemangiomas are usually diagnosed through a visual examination of the skin. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes of the growth.

Treatment for Cherry Hemangiomas

Cherry hemangiomas do not require treatment and are usually left alone.

However, if you are concerned about the appearance of a hemangioma or if it is causing symptoms such as bleeding or crusting, your doctor may recommend one of the following treatments:.

Cryotherapy: Freezing the hemangioma with liquid nitrogen to destroy the blood vessels.
Electrosurgery: Using an electric current to heat and destroy the blood vessels.
Laser surgery: Using a laser to target and destroy the blood vessels in the hemangioma.

It’s important to note that these treatments may cause scarring or temporary discoloration of the skin, and do not prevent new cherry hemangiomas from forming.

Prevention of Cherry Hemangiomas

Since the exact cause of cherry hemangiomas is unknown, there is no way to prevent them from forming. However, protecting your skin from the sun and avoiding exposure to any harsh chemicals or irritants can help reduce your risk of developing new ones.

When to See a Doctor

If you are concerned about the appearance of a cherry hemangioma, or if it is causing symptoms such as bleeding or crusting, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation and possible treatment.

You should also seek medical attention if you notice any changes in the size, color, or shape of the hemangioma, as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Conclusion

Cherry hemangiomas are common and harmless growths that are mainly a cosmetic concern. While they do not require treatment, some people may choose to have them removed for aesthetic reasons or if they cause symptoms such as bleeding or crusting.

If you are concerned about the appearance of a cherry hemangioma or if you notice any changes in size, color, or shape, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation and possible treatment.