Spider Angioma

Key Points
Condition is a benign overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin, specifically a central red bump with red lines extending outwards, usually on face or chest.
Condition is most common in adults, typically where extra estrogen is prevalent or liver function is poor.

Angioma or hemangioma describes a benign (non-cancerous) overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin. Angiomas are due to a large quantity of the cells that line blood vessels. Angiomas in adults include cherry angiomas, spider angiomas (or spider naevi) or venous lakes.

Spider angiomas are common on the face and upper chest. They are given that name because they have a central red bump with red lines extending outwards. They are sometimes known as nevus araneus. Spider angiomas may be seen in children and adults. They are more numerous in the presence of extra estrogen, for example in pregnancy, or when liver function is poor.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)
Cherry Hemangioma
Insect bites

Diagnosis
Key Points
Diagnosis is typically done through clinical investigations.
If uncertain about diagnosis, ultrasound scans, MRIs or angiographies may be performed.

Angiomas are usually diagnosed clinically and no investigations are necessary for the majority of lesions. However, when there is uncertainty about the diagnosis or whether underlying tissues are affected, an ultrasound scan is often performed. In more complicated cases it may be necessary to perform Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or angiography to help plan treatment.

Treatment
Key Points
Condition is harmless, so treatment is unnecessary.
For cosmetic reasons, they can be removed with cryotherapy, electrotherapy, or a vascular laser.

Angiomas are harmless, so do not have to be treated. If desired for cosmetic reasons, angiomas can be simply removed by cryotherapy, electrotherapy, or a vascular laser.