Conveniently located to serve Naples, Bonita Springs, and Estero
Cherry angiomas, also known as red moles, are skin growths that form in areas all over the body. They are small and are bright red in color due to the presence of blood vessels inside them, and they tend to have a circular or more oval-like appearance. This type of growth is most commonly found on men and women who are around age 30 or older, though they can also be found on younger individuals.
At Houck Dermatology, we provide our patients with effective dermatological care to treat a wide range of skin issues, including cherry angiomas. We give patients the information they need to understand their conditions so that they know the proper course of action to take when seeking care.
Identifying Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas are relatively small. They can be as small as a needle tip or as large as about one-fourth of an inch in diameter. They tend to have an ovular shape. Cherry angiomas can vary in texture as well, with some having a raised appearance and others being completely smooth and level with the skin.
While they can be found in areas across the body, cherry angiomas are most commonly found on the following areas:
- Shoulders
- Arms
- Torso
- Legs
What Causes Cherry Angiomas?
While research is ongoing, the exact cause of cherry angiomas is currently unknown. Research has shown that there may be genetic factors that increase a person’s likelihood of developing cherry angiomas.
Other factors that may play a role in the development of cherry angiomas include:
- Pregnancy
- Certain medical conditions
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- Climate
Are Cherry Angiomas Harmful?
In most cases, cherry angiomas are harmless and do not cause any issues that require treatment. However, if a cherry angioma has a tendency to bleed frequently or undergoes a change in color, shape, or size, it may need to be properly examined by a dermatologist. These symptoms may be a sign of skin cancer, which would require treatment.
Treating Cherry Angiomas
Though these skin lesions are typically harmless, many people choose to undergo treatment for cherry angiomas for cosmetic purposes. This is because the bright color or location may draw unwanted attention. In these cases, the cherry angioma can be removed through various means.
There are different options for removing cherry angiomas that include laser removal, shave excision, and electrocauterization. During your consultation, our team will take the time to analyze your condition and will ask several questions to determine the best option for removing your cherry angiomas. Some options for removal may require multiple treatments in order to achieve the desired results.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have cherry angiomas that you would like examined to determine if they are cancerous, or if you are interested in having them removed for cosmetic reasons, contact Houck Dermatology today to schedule a consultation. We are dedicated to providing all of our patients with compassionate and personalized care and outstanding results.