Cherry hemangiomas (also known as cherry angiomas, Campbell de Morgan spots, and senile hemangiomas) are the most common type of acquired benign vascular proliferation and are composed of thin-walled, dilated capillaries. These growths often present in early to mid-adulthood and appear as small red or violaceous macules or papules that increase in number and incidence with age. Cherry hemangiomas are benign and thus do not require treatment unless irritated or bleeding (usually secondary to trauma), but are often of cosmetic concern to patients.

The etiology of cherry hemangiomas is still poorly understood, with evidence supporting either a reactive or a neoplastic underpinning. However, several recent studies examining the genetics of cherry hemangiomas provide strong evidence that they are benign neoplasms, as they frequently harbor mutations known to cause other types of tumors. Studies also suggest that hormonal influences may be involved, evidenced by spontaneous involution of lesions after pregnancy.

The strongest risk factor for cherry hemangiomas is age. However, studies have also identified associations between cherry hemangiomas and toxic exposures including mustard gas and bromide, and with a variety of more severe health conditions including melanoma, nonmelanoma skin cancer, noncutaneous malignancy, immunosuppression, and dyslipidemia.