Angiomas are benign vascular tumors characterized by an abnormal growth of blood vessels. These tumors can occur in various forms and can be found on almost any part of the body. The most common types of angiomas include cherry angiomas and spider angiomas, which differ in their appearance, pathogenesis, and clinical significance.

Cherry Angioma

Cherry angiomas, also referred to as senile angiomas, are typically red or purple, dome-shaped lesions composed of clusters of dilated blood vessels. These lesions are most commonly seen in adults, particularly with advancing age, and are generally considered harmless . The exact cause of cherry angiomas remains unclear, but their prevalence increases with age, suggesting a possible degenerative process related to aging. Cherry angiomas are typically asymptomatic and do not have any known pathological significance.

Spider Angioma

Spider angiomas, also called spider nevi, are characterized by a central red spot with radiating extensions resembling spider legs. They are often observed in children and during pregnancy due to hormonal changes but can occasionally occur in adults without any apparent cause. When spider angiomas are present in large numbers, especially in adults, they may be indicative of underlying liver dysfunction, as they are frequently associated with conditions such as cirrhosis. Although spider angiomas can also appear in individuals with normal liver function, their presence in high quantities may serve as an early clinical sign of liver pathology.

Treatment

Angiomas generally do not require treatment unless they become symptomatic, such as in cases where they bleed or cause cosmetic concerns. In such instances, several therapeutic modalities are available, including electrodesiccation, liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, and laser therapy. Electrodesiccation involves using an electric needle to destroy the blood vessels in the angioma. This technique is effective but may cause mild discomfort and a risk of scarring. Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy involves the application of extremely cold gas to freeze the angioma, leading to its eventual destruction. This method is commonly used for superficial angiomas and is generally well-tolerated. Laser therapy, specifically pulsed dye laser, uses concentrated light to target and coagulate the blood vessels within the angioma, offering a less invasive treatment with good cosmetic outcomes.

While these treatments are usually effective, angiomas can recur after treatment, necessitating occasional follow-up care. However, recurrence rates are typically low, and most patients achieve satisfactory cosmetic results after treatment. Treatment decisions should be individualized, with the dermatologist selecting the most appropriate approach based on the patient’s condition, angioma type, and personal preferences.

References

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4. Ernst, C., Hopkins, R., & Mann, M. (2016). Electrodesiccation in dermatologic surgery: Indications, techniques, and complications. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 9(2), 16-22.
5. Muzumdar, S., & Rao, R. (2019). Pathogenesis of cherry angiomas: A clinical overview. Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 45(1), 1-8.
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8. Stevens, T., & Snow, J. (2020). Spider angiomas: A comprehensive review of diagnosis and treatment. American Journal of Dermatology, 22(5), 58-63.
9. Zeiger, D., Fitzpatrick, T., & Caccavale, A. (2017). The relationship between liver disease and spider angiomas. Journal of Hepatology, 43(2), 123-127.