Common

Cherry Angioma

Introduction

A cherry angioma1 is a common, red, domed, vascular lesion that can appear anywhere on the trunk or body. Synonyms for this condition are senile hemangioma, cherry hemangioma, and Campbell de Morgan spot.

Epidemiology

They appear at about age 30 and become more numerous with age.

Etiology

The etiology is unknown. These are simply a lobular proliferation of capillaries.

Symptoms and clinical features

Patient history is completely asymptomatic unless the lesions are traumatized and bleeding.

Smooth, bright red to purplish, domed papules 1 to 8 mm in diameter are seen.

Cherry Angioma

They are soft, blanch with pressure, are often multiple, and can be found on the mons pubis or labia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is clinical.

Pathology/Laboratory Findings

None needed.

Differential diagnosis

Angiokeratoma, pyogenic granuloma, and melanoma.

Treatment/management

If the papules are asymptomatic, no treatment is needed. The papules can be destroyed with electrodesiccation, shave excision, or laser therapy.

References

  1. Fisher BK, Margesson, LJ. Genital Skin Disorders: Diagnosis and Treatment. Mosby, Inc., 1998.188-189.