Early-stage melanoma or black cherry angioma: what to know

Cherry angiomas are small collections of blood vessels, often bright red, purple, or dark after irritation or bleeding. They are commonly harmless and may be smooth or slightly raised. Melanoma is a skin cancer that can change in colour, shape, size, or surface. A dark spot cannot be classified safely from a photograph or by comparing it with a typical example.

A clinician may use a dermatoscope to inspect pigment and blood-vessel patterns, then decide whether monitoring or a biopsy is appropriate. Do not scratch, squeeze, burn, or remove the spot at home.

Arrange a skin examination, especially if the mark is new, changing, bleeding, crusting, itching, or unlike your other spots. Photograph it beside a ruler for comparison, but do not delay assessment while tracking it. If examination supports a cherry angioma and it is bothersome, options may include Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment or Electrosurgery; treatment choice depends on the lesion and the clinician’s assessment.

Seek prompt dermatology assessment for a rapidly changing dark or multicoloured lesion, spontaneous bleeding, an ulcerated surface, persistent crusting, or a new firm bump. Seek urgent medical help for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, or for signs of infection such as spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or fever.

Ask whether dermoscopy or biopsy is needed, what specific change is concerning, and how soon the spot should be reviewed. If it appears benign, ask whether removal is medically needed or only for symptoms or appearance.