SPIDER ANGIOMA

What is a Spider Angioma?

A spider angioma is a very common, benign, acquired skin lesion.  It is a red focal network of dilated capillaries located at the surface of the skin which radiate from a central papule.  These lesions are usually solitary and characteristically blanch (turn white) upon compression.  They most commonly occur on the face, forearms, and hands.  

Who develops Spider Angioma?

Spider angioma frequently occurs in normal, healthy people.  They tend to be more common in females and can occur in children. They may be associated with a high estrogen state as they are often seen in pregnant women or those on estrogen therapy.  Lesions acquired in pregnancy or childhood may regress spontaneously.  They are also found in patients with liver disease, such as hepatitis or alcoholic cirrhosis.