What should you know about cherry angioma turned black?

A superficial blood spot can darken when its surface dries after minor trauma or when blood within it clots. A scab can also look black before it loosens. Colour alone cannot confirm the cause: a pigmented mole or another skin lesion may resemble a cherry angioma, particularly when the change is new, uneven, or accompanied by altered shape.

Do not scratch off a dark surface, squeeze the spot, or apply a home remover. Take a focused photograph in good light and note whether the lesion was recently rubbed, shaved, or bleeding. Arrange a clinician review for a new black colour or any persistent change. If it is confirmed as a cherry angioma and removal is wanted, options can include Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment or Electrosurgery.

Seek prompt assessment when darkening is rapid, the border becomes uneven, the lesion ulcerates, repeatedly bleeds, or develops persistent crusting or pain. Urgent help is appropriate for uncontrolled bleeding or signs of infection such as spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever. A changing black spot should be assessed even if it began as a familiar red mark.

Ask whether the dark material is a scab or clot, whether the whole lesion should be examined, and whether monitoring or removal is appropriate. Ask what specific changes should lead you back for reassessment.