Cherry hemangioma in Adult
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
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.
Codes
ICD10CM:D18.01 – Hemangioma of skin and subcutaneous tissue
SNOMEDCT:
5050001 – Senile angioma
Look For
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Angiokeratoma – Darker purple to blue color, scale or crust, and location on the genitals (scrotal, vulvar) or lower extremities are suggestive of angiokeratoma.
- Venous lake – Look for darker violaceous to blue color and location on the ear or lip.
- Lobular capillary hemangioma (pyogenic granuloma) – Larger size, friable surface, and ulceration are more common in lobular capillary hemangioma compared to cherry hemangioma.
- Nodular melanoma – Look for skin-toned, brown, or bluish-black color and rapid growth.
- Cutaneous metastasis – Typically firmer and more pink compared to cherry hemangiomas.
- Petechiae – Small, red, nonblanching macules associated with systemic disease. Typically, many lesions are seen clustered together.
- Bacillary angiomatosis – Found in patients with an immunocompromised state.
Best Tests
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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References
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Last Reviewed:07/14/2020
Last Updated:07/29/2020
Last Updated:07/29/2020
Patient Information for Cherry hemangioma in Adult
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Cherry hemangioma in Adult