Cherry angiomas are common benign skin growths that are made up of clusters of tiny capillaries. They usually start out very small and flat (only a millimeter or two in diameter), and tend to grow larger and rounder over time.
Cherry angiomas range in color from bright red to purple, and can occur anywhere on the body, but typically appear on the trunk. In most cases, they tend to show up after the age of 30, but have been observed in children and young adults.
Since they are composed entirely of blood vessels, they may bleed heavily if cut or injured. These growths are generally harmless, but people may have them removed for cosmetic reasons or if they bleed too much. Removal usually results in minimal scarring.