Red moles, also known as angiomas, are common skin growths that appear as small, bright red spots on the skin. These lesions are typically benign, meaning they are not cancerous and generally do not pose a health risk. They can vary in size, from tiny pinpricks to larger, slightly raised bumps. While often appearing on the trunk and limbs, their precise location can differ depending on the specific type.
The Science Behind Red Moles
Red moles form due to an overgrowth or dilation of small blood vessels, called capillaries, just beneath the skin’s surface. Capillaries are the body’s smallest blood vessels, responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells in tissues. When these capillaries dilate and swell, they become visible as red spots on the skin.
Several factors contribute to the development of these vascular lesions. Aging is a factor, as red moles become more prevalent in individuals over 30 and their numbers increase with age. Genetics also play a role, suggesting a predisposition. Hormonal fluctuations are a contributing element, with increased estrogen levels often linked to their appearance, especially during pregnancy. Elevated prolactin levels during and after pregnancy may also contribute.
Certain medical conditions and exposures can also influence the formation of red moles. These include conditions like graft-versus-host disease, lymphoproliferative disorders, multicentric Castleman disease, and human herpesvirus-8 (HHV8) infection. Exposure to specific chemicals, such as bromides and topical nitrogen mustard, has also been associated with their appearance. Liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, can also be associated with the presence of multiple red moles.
Common Types of Red Moles
Two common forms of red moles are cherry angiomas and spider angiomas, each with distinct appearances and locations. Cherry angiomas, also known as senile angiomas, are small, round, bright red bumps that can be flat or slightly raised. They consist of a dense cluster of dilated capillaries and often appear on the trunk, arms, and legs. They are the most frequently encountered type of angioma.
Spider angiomas, or spider nevi, feature a central red spot with fine, reddish blood vessels radiating outwards, resembling a spider’s legs. These lesions are typically found on the face, neck, chest, and arms. Unlike cherry angiomas, spider angiomas are often associated with hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or with oral contraceptives, and can also be linked to liver conditions. Both are benign vascular lesions, but their distinct structures and associations help differentiate them.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While red moles are usually harmless, certain changes warrant medical evaluation to rule out other skin conditions, including skin cancer. A healthcare provider should examine any red mole that rapidly increases in size. Changes in color, such as darkening or developing multiple hues, are signs that require professional assessment. Irregular borders or asymmetry should prompt a visit to a dermatologist. Bleeding, itching, or pain associated with the lesion is a reason to seek medical advice. The sudden appearance of many new lesions might indicate an underlying health issue. While most red moles are not cancerous, a medical professional can accurately diagnose them and recommend further steps if necessary.
Management and Removal Options
Removal of red moles is generally not medically necessary, as they are benign. However, individuals may choose removal for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated, bleed, or are frequently traumatized. Several effective procedures are available, typically performed in a doctor’s office.
Laser therapy uses concentrated light to target and destroy blood vessels within the angioma. Pulsed dye lasers, Nd:YAG lasers, and intense pulsed light (IPL) are frequently used, often requiring one to three sessions depending on size and depth. Cryotherapy involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off. This method is quick but can sometimes lead to temporary discoloration.
Electrocauterization uses a fine probe to deliver an electric current, burning the tissue and destroying the blood vessels. This procedure is effective for smaller angiomas. For larger or raised red moles, shave excision might be used, where a surgical blade shaves off the lesion. These procedures are generally quick, and recovery time is typically minimal, though some temporary bruising or scabbing may occur.