Angiomas
While angiomas are typically not a threat to your health, we understand the importance of smooth and clear skin. At Illinois Dermatology Institute, we treat a wide range of skin conditions using the latest techniques and technologies.
Read more on what angiomas are and how IDI can help restore the look of your skin. Call to book an appointment to diagnose your condition today.
What is an Angioma?
Essentially, an angioma is a benign growth consisting of tiny blood vessels found anywhere on the body. It is not known what exactly causes angiomas but they may signal liver damage when present in large numbers.
Cherry Angiomas
A red mole, or cherry angioma, is a common skin growth. Cherry angiomas are also known as Campbell de Morgan spots or senile angiomas and are usually found on adults 30 years of age or older.
Cherry angiomas are typically small, bright red, and circular or oval-shaped, ranging between the size of a pinpoint to up to a quarter-inch in diameter. They may look smooth and even with your skin. They typically are found on your torso, arms, legs, or shoulders.
What causes cherry angiomas?
The precise cause of cherry angiomas is not known but it is thought that genes may play a role. They may potentially be linked to pregnancy, exposure to certain chemicals, certain medical conditions, and climate.
Age might also be a factor in cherry angiomas as they usually begin around age 30 and seem to grow in size with age.
Cherry angiomas are so called due to the collection of small blood vessels which give them a reddish appearance. Unless it changes size, shape, or color, cherry angiomas should not be a concern. You should speak with a doctor if you notice any change in it’s appearance or if it begins to bleed which could be signs of skin cancer.
Spider Angiomas
Spider angiomas are another name for spider veins, a collection of small, dilated arterioles or blood vessels, that cluster near the skin’s surface. The cluster appears web-like, with a center and radiating vessels.
Spider angiomas can be due to the sun, injuries, hormones, or liver disease, but in many cases the cause is unknown. They are not a health issue for most people, although some with spider angiomas experience a degree of discomfort.
If you have spider veins and have been feeling weak, unusually tired, bloated, or if your skin or eyes have a yellow tint to them, you should see a doctor.
Treatment of Angiomas
Unless they are bleeding or otherwise bothering you, angiomas do not necessarily need to be treated. If you do opt to have them treated, electrodessication, liquid nitrogen, or laser treatment may be used by your dermatologist.
These types of treatment are quite effective but can be somewhat uncomfortable. Your dermatologist can recommend the treatment best suited for your particular condition.
- Electrocauterization involves burning the angioma using an electric current delivered by a small probe.
- Cryosurgery involves freezing the angioma using liquid nitrogen which destroys it. Typically only one session is needed.
- Laser surgery uses a pulsed dye laser (PDL), a concentrated yellow laser, to heat the angioma which destroys it. This method is a quick outpatient procedure.
If you are experiencing angiomas on your face or anywhere else and want it removed, book an appointment online with Illinois Dermatology Institute today.