Differential Diagnosis for Cherry Angioma
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cherry angioma itself: This is the most likely diagnosis due to its common presentation as a small, bright red, rounded papule. Cherry angiomas are benign vascular lesions that are extremely common in adults.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Petechiae: These are small, pinpoint spots that occur due to minor hemorrhages from broken capillary blood vessels. They can appear similar to cherry angiomas but are typically smaller and not as elevated.
- Telangiectasias: These are small, dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin or mucous membranes, which can resemble cherry angiomas in appearance but are usually more linear or spider-like.
- Hemangiomas: Although typically present at birth or shortly after, some hemangiomas can appear later in life and might be confused with cherry angiomas, especially if they are small and superficial.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Kaposi's sarcoma: A type of cancer that can cause lesions on the skin, which might resemble cherry angiomas but are usually more irregular and can be associated with systemic symptoms, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Bacillary angiomatosis: A bacterial infection caused by Bartonella species that can lead to vascular lesions similar to cherry angiomas, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Malignant melanoma (amelanotic): Although rare, amelanotic melanoma can present as a pink or red nodule, which might be mistaken for a cherry angioma. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its potential for aggressive behavior and poor prognosis if not treated early.
- Rare diagnoses
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): These are abnormal connections between arteries and veins that can cause skin lesions. While rare, they can present similarly to cherry angiomas but might have a more complex appearance and potentially serious complications if not addressed.
- Angiosarcoma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer that originates from the lining of blood vessels. It can present as a bruise-like lesion or a nodule that might be confused with a cherry angioma, especially in its early stages.
- Glomuvenous malformations (glomangiomas): These are rare vascular lesions that can appear similar to cherry angiomas but are typically more blue-purple in color and can be associated with pain.