Cherry angioma is a type of tumor or cyst that attacks people above 40 and is marked by the presence of lesions or red color. The size of the tumor may grow along with age and the angioma will occur on any part of the body except mucous membrane. There is no specific reason for the occurrence of cherry angiomas and is the most common type of lesions on human skin. Usually they develop on clusters on the surface of the skin and are cherry red in color. It is largely seen on the trunk of the body rather than on the extremities. The size of the angioma is much smaller than a pinhead size when it first appears on the body but they grow in size and become spongy or mushroom shaped over months. They are seen mostly in groups or clusters and sometimes alone and is frequently seen on the scalp, chest, neck and even face. When injured and punctured cherry angiomas will start bleeding.
Causes :
Exact cause for the formation of cherry angiomas is unknown. It can be inherited from parents and run for families. People with cancer or tumor cells have increased chance for getting red colored papules or angiomas when they grow old.
Symptoms :
The angiomans are bright red or cherry in color and it may take pink color also. The size of the angioma may range from pinhead size to much bigger measuring ¼ inches in diameter. In texture it would be smooth or sticky protruding from the skin surface slightly.
Diagnoses :
Physical examination is enough for detecting cherry angiomas but sometimes your doctor may tear open a small portion of the cyst (biopsy) for detecting any cancerous growth inside.
Treatment :
Cherry angiomas are not harmful and hence they do not require any treatment at all, except for cosmetic reasons. The doctor will examine the angioma and depending on the size and intensity of growth, he would decide the treatment method.