Overview
They usually appear on the trunk and increase with age.
They can bleed if scratched.
Cherry angiomas are made of tiny blood vessels and get more common with age.
They're not cancer and don't turn into cancer.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Small, bright red raised dots on the skin
Less common
- Bleeding if scratched
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayBleeding that won't stop.
See a doctor soonMany appearing suddenly, or one that changes.
Causes
Aging and genes.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Older age
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional can tell by looking.
The exam
A skin check.
Treatment
No treatment is needed.
Self-care
- Leave them alone
- Avoid scratching them
- Protect them from rubbing on clothing
Laser or burning can remove them.
Prevention
No sure prevention.
- There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Adults over 30: Very common.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Harmless.
Removal is optional and quick.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Should any be removed?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.