Spider angiomas get their name from their resemblance to arachnids. This common condition usually is not harmful and may not require treatment in all cases. However, spider angiomas can sometimes be a sign of a more serious health issue.
Spider angiomas result from an enlargement of the blood vessels, which occurs when blood flow to the connection between arteries and capillaries becomes restricted. Doctors are not entirely sure why this issue occurs, but believe it has something to do with oestrogen levels in the body. Risk factors for spider angiomas include:
Along with their spider-like appearance, spider angiomas can also cause skin discoloration, which can range from red to purple depending on a person’s skin tone. They are most often found on the face, neck, arms, fingers, midsection, and legs.
While many other skin conditions can be treated with topical ointments and creams, which may come in prescription strength, that is not the case with spider angiomas. Some angiomas may resolve on their own and might not require treatment. When appearance is an issue, doctors typically recommend one of two procedures:
Be sure to visit a doctor for an evaluation if you have more than three spider angiomas. In rare instances multiple angiomas can indicate a more serious medical condition, such as liver disease.