Understanding Spider Angomas: Causes, Treatments, and Cosmetic Solutions
Doctor explains the fascinating world of spider angomas, covering their causes, treatments, and why they are more common in children and during pregnancy. Learn how to manage this unique skin condition effectively.
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Topic Breakdown
Spider angomas, also known as spider nevi, are fascinating yet often misunderstood skin conditions. In this video, we delve into the intricacies of spider angomas, covering what they are, their causes, treatment options, and additional resources for those seeking further information.
So, what exactly is a spider angoma? Essentially, it's an enlarged blood vessel in the skin that resembles the body of a spider, from which smaller blood vessels extend, mimicking the spider's legs. This distinct appearance makes spider angomas relatively easy to identify.
The exact cause of spider angomas remains somewhat of a mystery. However, the majority of cases affect otherwise healthy individuals, with most people having only one or just a few. Spider angomas may appear when the body has increased levels of estrogen hormones, such as during pregnancy or when taking oral contraceptive pills. They might also occasionally occur in patients with liver or thyroid disease. Although they can develop at any age, they are more common in children. It's crucial to note that spider angomas are neither contagious nor cancerous, providing some reassurance for those diagnosed with this condition.
Visually, a spider angoma is characterized by a central red spot, which may be raised, from which smaller blood vessels radiate outward. Pressing on a spider angoma will make it temporarily disappear; releasing the pressure allows the blood to flow back in, returning the red color. These spots can measure up to a centimeter in diameter and are commonly found on the face, upper chest, back, and upper arms. In children, the back of the hands is also often affected. Due to their characteristic appearance, spider angomas can typically be diagnosed by a simple visual examination, without the need for special tests.
When it comes to treatment, spider angomas are generally of cosmetic concern only and are not usually treated through public health services like the NHS. In cosmetic clinics, the central artery of a spider angoma can sometimes be treated with an electric current, causing it to dry up. Vascular lasers, such as the pulse dye laser or KTP laser, can target the blood in the central small artery, causing it to shrink. However, laser treatment may not be readily available through public health services. These treatments, while potentially painful, usually do not require local anesthetic. They might leave a small permanent scar, often less noticeable after laser treatment than after electrodesiccation. It's also important to note that about a third of spider angomas can recur after treatment.
Another option for managing spider angomas is cosmetic camouflage. This involves using special makeup matched to the color of your skin, which is water-resistant and can effectively cover the angomas. Cosmetic camouflage can be particularly useful if there are multiple spider angomas causing significant cosmetic concern.
Interestingly, spider angomas may go away on their own over several years, especially in children and some adults. If spider angomas are related to increased estrogen levels, they may disappear once these hormone levels return to normal. For instance, after pregnancy or upon stopping the oral contraceptive pill, spider angomas may fade within about nine months.
I hope you found this information on spider angomas useful and informative. If you're interested in learning more, please check out the description box of the video for additional resources.
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