Observing changes on your skin is common, often sparking curiosity about what they signify. As the body’s largest organ, skin constantly interacts with its environment and can develop various growths or marks. Understanding these developments helps maintain peace of mind and indicates when further attention might be beneficial.
What Are Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas are a common type of benign (non-cancerous) skin growth. They typically appear as small, bright cherry-red, dome-shaped papules or flat spots on the skin. While they can vary in size from pinpoint to about 0.64 centimeters (one-quarter inch) in diameter, they are usually between 0.1 to 1 centimeter. These growths are often found scattered across the trunk and proximal extremities, but rarely on the hands, feet, or mucous membranes.
These red moles get their distinctive color from a collection of small, dilated blood vessels, specifically capillaries, close to the skin’s surface. Cherry angiomas are also known as Campbell de Morgan spots or senile angiomas, reflecting their common appearance with increasing age. While most common after age 30 (affecting an estimated 75% of people over 75), they can also occur in younger individuals (about 5% of adolescents). Their exact cause is unknown, but genetics may play a role, and they are asymptomatic unless injured.
Understanding Blanching and Cherry Angiomas
Blanching, in a medical context, refers to the temporary paling or whitening of a skin lesion or area when pressure is applied. This occurs because the applied pressure momentarily pushes blood out of the superficial capillaries, making the area appear lighter. Once the pressure is released, blood flow quickly returns, and the skin regains its original color. This phenomenon is often used by healthcare providers during a procedure called diascopy to help identify certain skin conditions.
However, cherry angiomas typically do not blanch when pressure is applied. The physiological reason lies in their structure: the blood vessels within a cherry angioma are permanently dilated and engorged, forming a dense cluster of capillaries. Unlike normal capillaries, the blood within these malformed vessels cannot be easily pushed out. This permanent engorgement means that even with firm pressure, the bright red or purple color of the angioma largely persists.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While cherry angiomas are benign and harmless, consult a healthcare professional for any new or changing skin lesion. Observing changes in existing moles or the appearance of new ones aids in early detection of more serious conditions. Seek medical evaluation if a skin lesion exhibits rapid growth, changes in color or shape, or develops irregular borders.
Additional warning signs that warrant a doctor’s visit include any skin lesion that starts to bleed, itch, or become painful. Persistent irritation, scabbing that doesn’t heal, or a lesion that looks different from others on your body are also reasons to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can offer a proper diagnosis and provide reassurance or recommend appropriate next steps if needed.