Cherry angioma (also called haemangioma) is a common benign skin growth caused by an overgrowth of small blood vessels. While it usually poses no health risk, its appearance—bright red, dome-shaped, and sometimes multiplying—can raise aesthetic concerns or confusion with more serious conditions. In some cases, cherry angiomas may bleed or appear in large numbers, which is why proper evaluation and, if necessary, treatment are important.

What is a Cherry Angioma?

A cherry angioma is a non-cancerous vascular lesion that forms when clusters of tiny blood vessels (capillaries) grow excessively and become visible through the skin as red dots or bumps. They are composed of proliferated capillary endothelial cells.

Who Gets Them and Why?

Most common type of angioma
Affects around 7% of adults, and up to 75% of people over 75 years old
Usually appears after age 30, but can develop earlier
Occurs equally in men and women, regardless of skin tone or ethnicity
In rare cases, may be linked to hormonal changes, liver issues, or certain cancers, though not dangerous by itself

Symptoms and Appearance

Begin as small, flat red spots, usually less than 5 mm
May grow into dome-shaped papules (raised lesions), up to 1 cm in size
Bright red, sometimes purplish or dark
Well-defined borders, smooth surface
Often appear in clusters, and may merge into larger lesions
In some cases, can darken or turn black if a clot (thrombosis) occurs
Painless, but may bleed easily when scratched or injured

Most common locations: torso, arms, upper legs, and shoulders. Less often on the face, hands, or feet.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a dermatologist if:

The angioma changes in size, color, or shape
It bleeds regularly or becomes irritated
It’s in a visible or sensitive area causing discomfort or cosmetic concern
You are unsure whether it's benign
You experience a sudden increase in the number of lesions

Diagnosis

Cherry angiomas are typically diagnosed through clinical evaluation and visual examination.

Additional tools may include:

Dermatoscopy – a close-up look at the blood vessel pattern
Biopsy – rarely needed, but used when diagnosis is unclear or to rule out other conditions

Treatment Options

Treatment is usually not medically necessary but may be chosen for cosmetic reasons or if the angioma is prone to trauma.

Common treatment methods include:

Electrocautery – the lesion is destroyed using electrical current
Laser therapy – precise and effective, especially for small or facial angiomas
Cryotherapy – freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen
Surgical removal – used for larger or atypical growths

Prognosis and Monitoring

Cherry angiomas are non-cancerous and have no malignant potential
They do not go away on their own, but may stop growing or remain unchanged for years
New angiomas may develop with age or hormonal changes
Once professionally removed, the same angioma does not grow back, though new ones may appear elsewhere
Scarring is minimal when removed properly

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are cherry angiomas dangerous?
No, they are benign. But sudden changes in appearance or number should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Can cherry angiomas be removed?
Yes. Safe, effective methods include laser, electrocautery, and cryotherapy.

Do they grow back?
The same angioma won’t return after removal, but others may form in different locations.

How to tell if it’s a cherry angioma or something serious?
Only a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis. If in doubt, schedule a skin check.

Conclusion

While cherry angiomas are harmless skin growths, they can cause concern due to their appearance or bleeding when irritated. If you're unsure about a red bump on your skin—or simply want it removed for cosmetic reasons—consulting a dermatologist is the best step. Early evaluation helps ensure peace of mind and appropriate care.