Angioma
Angioma Definition
Angioma is a benign tumor, which is made up of small blood vessels. Angioma normally appears near or at the surface of the skin in any part of the body. However, Angiomas are usually not considered dangerous (depending on location). Some Angiomas are present as symptoms for other serious diseases, such as cirrhosis. When an angioma is removed, it is usually for cosmetic reasons.
Angioma Types
There are two types of Angioma ? cherry Angioma and spider Angioma. Cherry Angiomas, as its name suggest, are cherry red papules on skin that contains abnormal proliferation on the blood vessels. Cherry angioma is the most common type of Angioma. Named after 19th century British surgeon Campbell de Morgan, the frequency of Cherry Angioma increases as patients grow older. Cherry Angioma appears in many people during middle age. There is no known cause of this condition. However, some cases are caused by an internal malignancy or exposure to mustard gas. Cherry angioma may require removal through electrosurgery or cryosurgery. The most recent treatment option is pulsed dye laser. On the other hand, spider angioma is found below skin?s surface, often with red spots on the center and reddish extensions that radiate like a spider?s web. Most Angiomas are benign and present in healthy children and adults. Spider angioma is usually found on the neck, face and upper part of the arms and trunk. Some children with this condition develop angiomas in their fingers and back of the hands. Majority of spider angiomas are result of various liver diseases. Spider angioma is normally resolved instantly. For women taking oral contraceptives, spider Angioma is cured when medications are stopped. For spider angioma related to liver disease, the condition can be resolved after liver function returns to normal.