Hemangioma Causes and Laser Treatment | Cherry, Spider, and Strawberry Hemangiomas: A Simple Guide to the Differences

Hemangioma may sound a little unfamiliar.
To put it simply, A cluster of small blood vessels that appear red on the skin You can think of it like this.

 

Most of them do not cause any particular health problems, but
If it appears in a place that is easily visible, it can be bothersome.
Sometimes it may grow in size and cause discomfort.

 

Hemangiomas are divided into cherry hemangiomas, strawberry hemangiomas, and spider hemangiomas depending on the type.
Today, we will explain the differences between these three, their causes, and even laser treatment methods.

 

 

 

1. What is a hemangioma?

 

Hemangiomas are benign tumors that develop when vascular endothelial cells proliferate excessively.
You may be worried because it is a tumor, Most of them do not develop into cancer and do not significantly affect health.

 

 

2. Causes of hemangioma

 

The exact cause of hemangiomas is not clear, but
Based on what is known so far, it is believed that the causes include vascular abnormalities that occur during fetal development, hormonal changes, aging, and trauma.

 

Especially neonatal hemangiomas (strawberry hemangiomas) It appears shortly after birth, but most disappear spontaneously within a few years.

 

 

3. Differences between cherry angiomas, strawberry angiomas, and spider angiomas

 

✔️Characteristics of strawberry hemangioma

• 
  - Common in newborns and young children.
  - It has a red and convex shape like a strawberry.
  - Over time, they gradually become smaller and most of them disappear.
  - If it occurs in a vital area, treatment may be required.

 

 

✔️Characteristics of cherry angioma

• 
  - It occurs mainly in adults, especially after middle age.
  - It appears as a small, red dot on the skin and is not harmful to health.
  - Many people want cosmetic treatment as the number can increase.
•  

 

 

✔️Characteristics of spider angiomas

• 
  - It has a red dot in the center and blood vessels spread out around it.
  - They often appear on the face, back of the hands, etc. and resemble spider legs.
  - It is often seen in pregnant women and people with liver disease.
•  

 

 

4. Laser treatment for hemangioma

 

Hemangiomas are usually fine to observe, but they may be removed if they are uncomfortable or for cosmetic reasons.

 

✔️Type of laser used

• 
  - Pulsed dye laser (PDL): Selectively removes only red blood vessels
  - IPL: Simultaneous improvement of skin tone and treatment of hemangioma
  - CO₂ laser: Effective in removing superficial hemangiomas
  - In addition, electrocautery and cryotherapy are also used.
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✔️Hemangioma treatment effects and precautions

• 
  - Usually 1 to 5 treatments are required.
  - There may be temporary redness or scabbing after the procedure, but it will recover quickly.
  - The younger the child, the better the response.
•  

 

 

5. Neonatal hemangioma: Do I really need treatment?

 

Most cases go away on their own and do not require treatment.
However, if it occurs in areas where it can affect function, such as around the eyes, nose, or mouth, early treatment is necessary.

 

 

6. Things to consider when choosing a hemangioma hospital

 

Treatment of hemangioma depends on the hospital's equipment and the doctor's experience.

 
- A dermatologist with extensive experience treating hemangiomas
- Hospitals with various laser equipment
- Experience with pediatric hemangiomas

 

It is recommended that you choose a hospital by considering these conditions.

 

 

 

📌 Hemangioma FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

 

Q1. Can hemangiomas develop into cancer?
👉 No. Hemangiomas are mostly benign tumors and rarely turn into cancer.

 

Q2. Does a hemangioma really need to be treated?
👉 Most cases disappear naturally, so treatment isn't necessary. However, if they affect function or cause significant cosmetic discomfort, treatment may be considered.

 

Q3. When will neonatal hemangiomas disappear?
👉 It usually grows until about a year after birth, then gradually shrinks and almost disappears around the age of 5 to 10. However, if it develops in a vital area, early treatment may be necessary.

 

Q4. Why do cherry angiomas increase in number with age?
👉 The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to be related to aging. While not a health concern, the increased number can be a cosmetic concern.

 

Q5. Does laser treatment for hemangioma hurt?
👉 In most cases, there's only a slight stinging pain, and you can resume your daily routine immediately after the procedure. Children can receive topical anesthesia if necessary, so there's no need to worry.

 

Q6. Will hemangioma recur after laser treatment?
👉 Although the already treated area rarely relapses, hemangiomas may develop in new areas.

 

 

To sum up.

 

Hemangiomas are mostly benign tumors that are not dangerous, but depending on the type and location, they may require treatment.
Cherry hemangiomas, spider hemangiomas, and strawberry hemangiomas each have different characteristics, and these days, they can be easily improved with laser treatment.

 

If you are concerned about red spots or spots on your skin, we recommend that you consult a professional for an accurate diagnosis.

 

 

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