Angioma

What is an Angioma?

An angioma is a small, mole-like growth on the skin that can appear almost anywhere on the body but are often found on the trunk (torso or back). They are very common in adults, particularly those over the age of 30, and are caused by an overgrowth of capillaries (blood vessels). Though classified as a tumourous growth, angiomas are completely benign (non-cancerous), and present with a smooth surface. The most common type is the cherry angioma, so-called because of it’s bright red appearance; the spider angioma and angiokeratomas are less common. In most cases, angiomas are harmless and do not cause irritation; however should irritation or bleeding occur, as well as a noticeable growth or change of it’s shape, it may be an indication of an underlying health condition. Treating an angioma is usually only done for cosmetic purposes where no indication of a serious threat is diagnosed.  

What are the typical symptoms of an Angioma?

The types of angioma all present slightly differently. Below are the symptoms for the three main types of angiomas:

The development of a cherry angioma causes the following symptoms:

• A circular, bright red growth. Cherry angiomas can range from the size of a pinprick to up to one quarter of an inch in diameter. They appear above the surface of the skin as a smooth but raised mole-like bump, and may also appear as purple, blue or even black in colour.
• Bleeding. If scratched or damaged, a cherry angioma can bleed significantly. Bleeding can also make a cherry angioma itchy. 

Spider angiomas may cause these following symptoms:

• A circular, bright red growth. Much like the cherry angioma, spider angiomas have the same distinctive markings, however these present under the skins surface. 
• Extending lines. Spider angiomas spread out from the central circular spot formation, representative of the lines in a spiders’ web (hence the name). These thin, red lines can blanch or lose their colouring when compressed with a glass.

Angiokeratomas are less common, and may present themselves with any of the following:

• A wart-like growth. Unlike the other types, angiokeratomas are much harder and have a rough and scaly feel. They grow on the surface of the skin and may start to feel crusty over time. The colours may vary from dark red, brown or blue. 
• Bleeding. Like a cherry angioma, significant bleeding can occur if scratched or damaged.

What causes an Angioma?

Angiomas are the result of small blood vessels (capillaries) ‘clumping’ together, forming visible bumps on or under the surface of the skin. It’s not known what the exact causes are for developing an angioma. Certain factors may contribute to their likelihood. Below are some possible causes:

• Age. Any type of angioma is highly unlikely to be found in children (though can still occur in adolescents), and are more likely to develop with age, particularly in those over 30 years old.  
• Skin complexion. It is thought that a fairer skin complexion may increase the likelihood of angiomas appearing, particularly cherry angiomas. Angiomas can affect individuals of any race or sex.
• Genetics. Genetic inheritance may play a part in the increased risk of developing an angioma. 
• Pregnancy. Angiomas have been found to develop in response to increased oestrogen levels, and therefore can occur during pregnancy.
• Skin irritation/chemical exposure. Skin irritation to a harmful or irritant product can upset the natural state of the skins surface, leading to an angioma. A common chemical element, bromine, has been linked to causing angiomas. Bromines are found in a variety of everyday products, such as baking ingredients, prescription medications, and plastics. 
• Medical conditions. Very particular medical conditions can cause angiomas to appear; eruptive cherry angiomas, a sudden onset of tiny cherry angioma formations, have been linked to cancers. Some very rare diseases and illnesses, such as Multicentric Castleman Disease, can cause clusters of cherry angiomas to form.   

How to help prevent an Angioma

Due to the exact cause of angiomas being unknown, it is difficult to prevent them forming. They are totally benign (non-cancerous), and not to be concerned about if they do present. Prevention from known causes of angiomas may include:

• Protect skin from irritants. If known to cause angiomas, giving yourself the best protection from chemicals and other skin irritants will prevent angiomas developing. 
• Reduce direct sun exposure. It’s been shown that UV radiation from the sun can encourage the development of angiomas, particularly cherry angiomas. Sufficient protection with sunscreen and staying shaded during the hottest parts of the day will reduce the risk of them developing.
• Healthy living. Staying hydrated, eating healthily, reducing alcohol intake and taking up regular exercise have many health benefits. A nutritious diet will keep the body free of toxins and build up immunity which can prevent conditions occurring that may lead to angioma development.

How is an Angioma typically diagnosed?

A physical examination of the skin by a doctor is the first step in diagnosing an angioma. They may ask you how long the angioma(s) have been present, and any other symptoms you may have experienced. The presence of an angioma/multiple angiomas for years in healthy individuals is common. Doctors will recognise angiomas for being raised, with a smooth surface and characteristic colourings. Angiomas typically tend to form on the torse and back (truck) of the body, but may also present on the head, arms and legs; their location, as well as their size, will help a doctor determine if there is in fact an angioma present.

Using a small, painless device called a dermatoscope to closer examine the skin may aid diagnosis. In cases of uncertainty or concern, a doctor may request a biopsy; this involved removing the angioma partially or fully by cutting it from the skin and sending for laboratory analysis. 

How is an Angioma treated?

Treatment of an angioma is not always necessary, and only recommended should there be a cause for concern. Treatment, which is removal of the angioma from the skin, is more often for aesthetic purposes. There are a number of ways this can be achieved:

• Electrocauterisation. Sometimes referred to as electrodessication, this method of treatment involved burning the angioma off; this is one of the more common forms of treatment to remove angiomas, as well as other benign skin tumours (benign on cancerous).
• Cryosurgery. Commonly used for other skin conditions, this treatment involved freezing the angioma using liquid nitrogen. The process freezes the damaged cells to kill them.
• Laser surgery. A very fine laser, with enough heat to kill damaged cells, can be used on angiomas to remove them. The process is very fast, however may require repeat treatments, sometimes up to three, to remove them entirely. Temporary bruising may result from this procedure.
• Excision. This may involve shaving the angioma from the skin (shave excision) or cutting it out entirely. Scarring may result from this procedure.

Are Angiomas cancerous?

Angiomas are completely benign (non-cancerous), harmless, and can be removed easily. Their appearance, however, can often be difficult to distinguish from other skin lesions such as moles and skin cancers. Signs of a potentially cancerous growth are a change in shape, asymmetrical shape, and persistent bleeding. A sudden onset of multiple angiomas could possibly be a sign of internal cancer. These symptoms should not be ignored, and a doctor will be able to rapidly diagnose you during an examination and initiate the appropriate treatment.  

How can Doctify help with Angiomas?

At Doctify, we are proud to work with leading specialists in all fields of medicine. Our service could put you in touch with some of the country’s leading consultants based on real patient reviews. To find the right doctor for you, visit www.doctify.com/uk.