What Are Cherry Angiomas?
Cherry angiomas are small, bright red or purple skin growths made up of tiny blood vessels (capillaries). They’re completely harmless, non-cancerous, and not contagious.
Also called senile angiomas or Campbell de Morgan spots, they often begin appearing after age 30 and may increase in number over time. Most commonly found on the trunk, arms, shoulders, and legs, cherry angiomas can appear anywhere on the body.
Key Characteristics
Color:
Bright red, maroon, or purplish
Shape:
Round or oval, dome-like
Size:
From a pinpoint up to about 5 mm (roughly the size of a pencil eraser)
Texture:
Smooth or slightly raised
Sensation:
Painless, but may bleed if scratched or injured
Some people develop just one or two, while others may have dozens. They often appear gradually and may grow slowly over time.
What Causes Them?
The exact cause of cherry angiomas isn’t fully understood, but several factors may contribute:
Aging: Common after age 30 and more frequent with advancing age
Genetics: They often run in families
Hormonal shifts: Sometimes linked to pregnancy or other hormonal changes
Though their vivid appearance can be alarming, cherry angiomas are not dangerous and don’t indicate any underlying disease.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Cherry angiomas are typically harmless, but you should consider seeing a dermatologist if:
A spot changes in shape, color, or size
It becomes itchy, painful, or bleeds frequently
You’re unsure if the lesion is a cherry angioma
A dermatologist can usually make a diagnosis based on a simple visual exam and provide reassurance or treatment options if needed.
Treatment Options
Removal is not medically necessary unless the angioma becomes bothersome or causes cosmetic concern. If desired, common in-office removal methods include:
Laser therapy: Targets blood vessels with minimal skin damage
Electrocautery: Uses electric current to burn off the lesion
These procedures are generally quick, safe, and require little to no recovery time.
Living With Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas are a common part of skin aging and usually pose no health risk. While they may increase in number over time, they are not contagious or linked to cancer. If you find them bothersome or notice changes, a dermatologist can help with diagnosis and discuss removal options.
