From the Research
Cherry angiomas are benign vascular proliferations that can be effectively treated with various modalities, including laser therapy, cryotherapy, and electrosurgery, with the choice of treatment depending on the individual patient's needs and skin type, as reported in the most recent and highest quality study 1. The diagnosis of cherry angiomas is typically based on their characteristic appearance as small, bright red or purple spots on the skin, and they are often found in individuals over the age of 30.
- The exact cause of cherry angiomas is unknown, but they are thought to be related to the proliferation of blood vessels, and may be influenced by factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, climate, and chemical exposure 2.
- Treatment options for cherry angiomas include:
- Laser therapy, such as pulsed dye laser (PDL) or neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, which can be effective in removing the lesions with minimal side effects 1, 3.
- Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen, and can be a quick and effective treatment option 4.
- Electrosurgery, such as electrocautery or electrodessication, which can be used to remove the lesion and stop any bleeding 2.
- Shave excision, which involves surgically removing the lesion, and can be a good option for larger lesions or those that are causing cosmetic concerns. It's worth noting that while these treatment options are generally safe and effective, there are potential risks and side effects to consider, such as pain, bleeding, and scarring, and the choice of treatment should be individualized based on the patient's specific needs and skin type, as well as the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option, as reported in the study 5. The most effective treatment for cherry angiomas is laser therapy, specifically PDL, which has been shown to be effective in removing the lesions with minimal side effects, as reported in the most recent and highest quality study 1.