Red moles, often known as cherry angiomas, are common skin growths that can appear on various parts of the body. They are typically small, bright red, and can be either flat or slightly raised, resembling a dome-shaped bump. These benign lesions usually do not cause any symptoms and are generally considered harmless.
The Main Cause of Red Moles
The primary biological mechanism behind red moles, specifically cherry angiomas, involves an overgrowth of small blood vessels. These lesions are characterized by a proliferation of capillaries, tiny blood vessels, located close to the skin’s surface. This increases the number and size of these vessels, leading to their dilation and making them visible as distinct red spots.
This vascular proliferation results in a localized cluster of dilated blood vessels, giving the angioma its characteristic ruby-red appearance. While the exact trigger for this overgrowth remains unknown, the resulting structure is a benign vascular tumor. The medical classification for these skin growths is Hemangioma of skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Factors That Influence Their Appearance
While the precise reason for the proliferation of blood vessels in cherry angiomas is not fully understood, several factors are thought to influence their development. Genetics play a role, as individuals with a family history are more likely to develop them.
Age is another significant factor, with cherry angiomas typically increasing in number and size as people get older. They often appear after age 30, and their prevalence rises considerably in adults over 75. Hormonal changes can also contribute, commonly observed during pregnancy.
When to Consult a Doctor
Red moles, or cherry angiomas, are generally benign and pose no health risk. However, it is prudent to consult a doctor if you notice changes in an existing red mole or the sudden appearance of new ones. Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color should be evaluated.
Also seek medical attention if a red mole begins to bleed spontaneously, becomes painful, or develops an irregular border. The sudden appearance of multiple, rapidly growing lesions, sometimes called eruptive cherry angiomas, also warrants a visit. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the lesion and rule out other, more serious skin conditions that might resemble a cherry angioma.
Options for Removal
Removal of cherry angiomas is typically not medically necessary as they are benign. Most people consider removal for cosmetic reasons or if the mole frequently gets irritated or bleeds, such as from clothing friction.
Several common procedures are available for removal, usually performed in a dermatologist’s office. Laser therapy, often using a pulsed dye laser, targets the blood vessels within the angioma. Other options include cryosurgery, which involves freezing the mole with liquid nitrogen, and electrocautery, which uses heat from an electric current to destroy tissue. For larger lesions, a shave excision might be performed.