Campbell de Morgan Spot

Synonyms: cherry haemangiomas, senile angiomas

These are common, benign skin lesions of middle to older age, formed by proliferating, dilated capillaries and postcapillary venules. They are named after an English surgeon, Campbell-de-Morgan (1811-76).

Their cause remains unknown:

• Chemical exposure (mustard gas, 2-butoxyethanol) causes multiple lesions to develop.
• Pregnancy and prolactinomas are associated with the development of lesions implicating hormonal mediators.

• These are the most common cutaneous vascular proliferation - occurring in up to 54% of Australian adults.²
• They increase in frequency and size with age.
• The most common age of onset is in the third and fourth decades of life.
• They are seen across all races and sexes.

• Small (1-3mm) macules, may become larger papules over time.
• Typical bright cherry red colour but can appear violaceous.
• They are non-blanching.

• They usually occur on the trunk and extremities.
• They can be found at any skin site except the mucous membranes.
• Lesions may be widespread, especially in elderly.
• They are asymptomatic.

• Malignant melanoma
• Spider naevi
• Pyogenic granuloma
• Kaposi's sarcoma
• Insect bite
• Angiokeratoma
• Congenital haemangioma

• Reassure - these lesions usually require no treatment.
• If removal is desired, treatment options include pulsed dye laser, electrocautery and excision.

• Diagnostic uncertainty
• Assistance with removal

• Campbell de Morgan spots are benign lesions.
• Problems only arise when lesions are frequently traumatised, continue to enlarge or of cosmetic concern to patient.
• There is a rare paraneoplastic association of the sudden onset of multiple new lesions with internal malignancy.