Understanding Cherry Angiomas: When Should You Be Concerned?
M30, of Indian descent. A few months back, I discovered cherry angiomas on my arms. After that initial observation, I began to monitor them regularly and noticed that new spots were emerging. It's possible these had been present before, but with my hairy arms, they were difficult to detect. (A dermatologist confirmed these are indeed cherry angiomas.) I recently underwent comprehensive metabolic and CBC testing, with results showing all values within normal limits, aside from my TSH, which was significantly elevated at 40.5, where the upper reference limit is set at 40. As a 30-year-old Indian individual with brown skin, my doctor reassured me that having cherry angiomas is typical. Nevertheless, I've counted nearly 15 to 20 of these markings on my arms, leading to my concern. At what point should cherry angiomas raise suspicion of underlying systemic issues? This is something that weighs on my mind continuously.
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 6:10:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
Cherry angiomas are generally benign skin growths that can appear in various areas of the body. They are quite common, especially as people age, and many individuals develop them without any underlying health concerns. It sounds like you have been proactive in monitoring your skin and discussing your findings with a dermatologist, which is a great approach.
Explanation
Cherry angiomas typically present as small, red or purple spots on the skin and can vary in size. While they are common in people of all skin types, certain factors such as genetics and age can influence their development. The fact that you have had these confirmed by a dermatologist suggests that there is likely no immediate concern.
Your elevated TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) level does require attention, as it suggests a possible underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). However, this is separate from the presence of cherry angiomas and should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
Next Steps
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Monitor Changes: Continue to keep an eye on the cherry angiomas. If you notice any significant changes in size, color, or if they begin to bleed, consider discussing these specific changes with your dermatologist.
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Thyroid Management: Follow up with your healthcare provider regarding your elevated TSH levels. They may recommend further testing to determine the cause and suggest appropriate treatment.
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Self-Observation: Maintain a photo record of your cherry angiomas over time to track any new developments or changes—this can be helpful during future discussions with your dermatologist.
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Reassurance: Remember that while it’s good to be vigilant about any changes in your skin, the vast majority of cherry angiomas do not signify any serious health issues. Staying proactive about your health, including regular check-ups for both your skin and thyroid function, is advantageous.
If you have more specific questions or if your concerns grow, feel free to reach out for further guidance.
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