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Definition:
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Spider angioma is an abnormal collection of blood vessels near the surface of the skin.
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Alternative Names:
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Nevus araneus, spider veins
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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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Spider angiomas are very common. They occur often in pregnant women and people with liver disease. They can appear both children and adults.
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Symptoms:
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The main symptom is a blood vessel sore (lesion) that:
- May have a red dot in the center
- Has reddish extensions that reach out from the center
- Disappears when pressed on then comes back when pressure is released
- Is seen most often on the face and neck
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Signs and tests:
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Most of the time you do need tests to diagnose the condition. A skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis in some cases. Blood tests may be done if a liver problem is suspected.
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Treatment:
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Most of the time you do not need treatment. Electrocauterization or laser treatment may be used in some cases.
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Expectations (prognosis):
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Spider angiomas often disappear in children. They tend to last in adults.
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Calling your health care provider:
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Let your doctor know if you have a new spider angioma so other related medical conditions can be ruled out.
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References:
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Habif TP. Vascular tumors and malformations. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 23.
Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, et al, eds.Dermatology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa:
Mosby Elsevier; 2012:chap 106.
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