Campbell de Morgan Spot

Synonyms: cherry haemangiomas, senile angiomas

Common, benign lesions of middle to older age formed by proliferating, dilated capillaries and postcapillary venules. Named after an english surgeon, Campbell-de-Morgan (1811-76).

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.

• Most common cutaneous vascular proliferation - occur in up to 54% of australian adults²
• Increase in frequency and size with age
• Most common age of onset is in the third and fourth decades of life
• 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
• Nonblanching.

For image, see ³

• Usually occur on the trunk and extremeties
• Can be found at any skin site except the mucous membranes
• Lesions may be widespread, especially in elderly
• Asymptomatic.

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

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

• Diagnostic uncertainty
• Assistance with removal.

• Benign lesions
• Problematic only when lesions is frequently traumatised, continue to enlarge or of cosmetic concern to patient
• Rare paraneoplastic association of sudden onset of multiple new lesions with internal malignancy.