Health Encyclopedia

Spider angioma

Definition

Spider angioma is an abnormal collection of blood vessels near the surface of the skin.

Alternative Names

Nevus araneus

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

A spider angioma lesion typically has a red dot in the center with reddish extensions radiating out for some distance around it (a few millimeters to a centimeter or more). Spider angiomas can occur anywhere but are most common on the face and trunk.

Spider angiomas are very common and are especially prevalent during pregnancy and in patients with liver disease.

Symptoms

Vascular (blood vessel) lesion
- May have a red dot in the center
- Has reddish extensions that radiate from the center
- Disappears with pressure and reappears when the pressure is released.
Common in both children and adults
Most frequently seen on the face and trunk

Signs and tests

No testing is usually necessary, but a skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis in some cases.

Treatment

Treatment is generally not necessary. In some cases, electrocauterization or laser treatment may be used.

Expectations (prognosis)

Spider angiomas often disappear in children but tend to persist in adults.

Calling your health care provider

A spider angioma can usually be examined at a routine visit. It is especially important for adults to mention the development of a new spider angioma, to rule out associated medical conditions.

Review Date:10/26/2006
Reviewed By:Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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