Spider Angioma is a type of red spot found on the skin, often associated with liver disease. The word Spider Angioma is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈspaɪdər ˌændʒiˈoʊmə/. The first syllable is pronounced as "spy-der" while the second syllable is pronounced as "an-ji-oh-ma". The /ai/ sound in "Spider" is spelled with the vowel combination "ai" while the /oʊ/ sound in "Angioma" is spelled with the vowel combination "io". This spelling convention follows the rules of English language phonetics.
Spider angioma, also known as spider nevus or spider telangiectasia, is a common vascular abnormality characterized by a small, central red dot or lesion with outwardly radiating capillaries that resemble the legs of a spider. It is a benign skin condition commonly found on the face, neck, upper chest, and arms.
Spider angiomas occur due to the dilation of small blood vessels or capillaries near the surface of the skin. They are typically acquired rather than congenital, meaning they develop over time as opposed to being present from birth. Although the exact cause is unknown, they are commonly associated with hormonal changes, particularly related to pregnancy or liver dysfunction. Therefore, they are more frequently observed in pregnant women or individuals with liver diseases such as cirrhosis.
Despite their striking appearance, spider angiomas are generally harmless and do not cause any discomfort or pain. They may vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters to a centimeter or more in diameter. Occasionally, these lesions may blanch when pressure is applied to them.
While treatment for spider angiomas is not usually necessary, it may be considered for cosmetic reasons or if there is an underlying medical condition. Options for removal include laser therapy, electrocautery, or injection sclerotherapy. However, it is important to note that spider angiomas may spontaneously fade or disappear over time, especially after the causative factors have resolved.
The word "spider angioma" is a medical term used to describe a small, dilated blood vessel that resembles a spider web or spider legs, usually found on the skin.
The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Spider: The word "spider" comes from the Old English word "spinnan" which means "to spin". It refers to the spider-like appearance of the blood vessel, resembling the legs of a spider spreading out from a central point.
2. Angioma: The term "angioma" is derived from two Greek words. "Angio" means "vessel" and "oma" means "tumor" or "abnormal growth". In medical terminology, "angioma" is used to describe any abnormal growth or tumor composed of blood vessels.