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Spider angiomas are visible blood vessels under the skin that often surround a red spot or lesion. They are common in babies, pregnant women, and those on hormonal birth control. While they usually resolve on their own, any rapidly growing lesion or multiple angiomas may require medical attention. Liver disease can also cause them. Treatment options include electrocautery or laser procedures.
A spider angioma is a group of blood vessels that can easily be seen just under the skin and usually surrounds a red spot or lesion. The literature describes these angiomas as having some resemblance to a spider’s web or spider body with legs. Both explanations work as a description of a spider angioma. Typically, although this condition may be obvious, it does not require treatment and resolves on its own. Perhaps up to half of all babies will have at least one in their lifetime, and they’re quite common in pregnant women or women on hormonal birth control.
Although many times a spider angioma can be safely ignored, any rapidly growing lesion on the face or trunk (the most common places they develop) may deserve some medical attention. In the case of lesions that look like spider angiomas, there are a few distinguishing factors, such as the red dot and the presence of visible small blood vessels extending from it. Another common expression of the disease is that putting pressure on the angioma will cause it to lose its red color, until the pressure is relieved.
However, sometimes the red lesion or area surrounding a spider angioma might rupture and bleed regularly. This is definitely a bit unusual and people should see a doctor. Another potential cause for concern is if five or more spider angiomas are present, as many could indicate liver problems. Patients should check with their doctors if they have a large number of them to rule out any physical problems that could be creating them.
Certainly a spider angioma can be unsightly and people may be anxious to use a method to get rid of them. It may be possible to use techniques such as electrocautery to destroy blood vessels, or alternatively, there are some laser procedures that can be used to remove a angioma. Those who aren’t in a hurry to remove one usually don’t have to wait long for them to go away. Most resolve on their own within a year of first appearing and sometimes disappear sooner, especially if a pregnancy resolves or a woman stops using hormonal birth control.
There appears to be a connection between estrogen levels and the presence of spider angiomas, but this may not be the main factor in all cases, especially in male children. Liver disease can certainly cause them too, so this is always something people should watch out for. In most cases, however, these are benign and unlikely to cause harm or remain permanently visible.
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