Cherry hemangiomas, also known as Campbell de Morgan spots, are common growths on the skin that are typically bright red or purple. These growths are not typically dangerous, but they may be unsightly or cause discomfort to some individuals.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of cherry hemangiomas can help you identify them and alleviate any concerns you may have.

Causes of Cherry Hemangiomas

The exact causes of cherry hemangiomas are not fully understood, but there are several factors that may play a role in their development. These include:.

: Age

Cherry hemangiomas are more common in individuals over the age of 30 and increase in prevalence with age.

: Genetics

There may be a genetic component to cherry hemangiomas, as they tend to run in families.

: Pregnancy

Some women may develop cherry hemangiomas during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

: Exposure to Sunlight

Exposure to sunlight may cause cherry hemangiomas to develop or become more prominent.

: Liver Disease

Cherry hemangiomas have been associated with liver disease, although the exact relationship is not fully understood.

Symptoms of Cherry Hemangiomas

The primary symptom of cherry hemangiomas is the appearance of small, bright red or purple growths on the skin. These growths are typically round or oval in shape and may vary in size.

They are generally painless, but may cause mild itching or burning in some individuals. Although they can appear anywhere on the body, cherry hemangiomas are typically found on the torso, arms, and legs.

Treatment Options

Cherry hemangiomas are generally harmless and do not require treatment. However, if they are causing discomfort or are located in a visible area, there are several treatment options available. These include:.

: Laser Therapy

Laser therapy can be used to remove cherry hemangiomas. The laser targets the blood vessels in the growth, causing them to break down and the growth to disappear.

: Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the cherry hemangioma with liquid nitrogen. This causes the growth to die and fall off.

: Electrosurgery

Electrosurgery involves using an electric current to remove the cherry hemangioma. The growth is first numbed with a local anesthetic, and then the electric current is used to destroy the blood vessels in the growth.

: Shave Excision

Shave excision involves using a sharp instrument to shave off the cherry hemangioma. This option may leave a scar, so it is typically only used for larger growths.

Prevention Tips

While it may not be possible to completely prevent cherry hemangiomas from developing, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:.

: Protecting Your Skin

Wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen can help reduce your risk of developing cherry hemangiomas due to sun exposure.

: Staying Healthy

Living a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, can help prevent cherry hemangiomas.

: Maintaining Liver Health

Keeping your liver healthy by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and eating a nutritious diet may help reduce your risk of developing cherry hemangiomas.

Conclusion

Cherry hemangiomas are a common type of growth on the skin that are typically harmless. While the exact causes of cherry hemangiomas are not fully understood, there are several factors that may contribute to their development.

Treatment options are available for those who wish to have cherry hemangiomas removed, but prevention is often the best approach. By taking steps to protect your skin, live a healthy lifestyle, and maintain liver health, you can reduce your risk of developing cherry hemangiomas.