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Persistent itching of the skin can be a symptom of a serious illness or even cancer. Never underestimate the signals your body is sending you. Find out what persistent itching can mean and when to watch out.
- Not every itch means a serious illness. This is a symptom that practically every human being experiences from time to time. However, persistent itching of the skin should always prompt you to see a doctor
- Certain types of cancer may appear as itching. generalized itching
- In addition to cancer, itching can signal many other diseases or skin irritations.
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Itching may be a symptom of cancer
Itchy skin can be an extremely unpleasant experience. Persistent irritation and discomfort may, however, be related to dysfunction of certain organs or an underlying disease. Itching can be a symptom of certain types of cancer, or the body’s response to cancer treatments. What tumors can cause itching?
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Probably everyone in their life has encountered the problem of itchy skin. As long as the symptom can be linked to its cause, and the itching itself does not persist, we should not panic. However, if the itching persists, is persistent or even begins to interfere with normal daily functioning, it is imperative to diagnose the cause of the itch. It may turn out to be a symptom of a serious illness.
According to a 2018 study, patients with generalized itchy skin were more likely to develop cancer than patients who did not experience itching.
The types of cancer that are most commonly associated with itchy skin include:
- blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma
- bile duct cancer,
- gallbladder cancer,
- liver cancer,
- pancreatic cancer,
- breast cancer
- stomach cancer,
- lung cancer,
- a brain tumor,
- skin cancer.
Skin cancer – itching may be this symptom
Typically, skin cancer is identified as altering or frightening skin moles and lesions. In some cases, it is itching that can cause us to notice a suspicious spot on the skin.
Pancreatic cancer and itchy skin
People struggling with pancreatic cancer may also experience itching. However, pruritus is not a direct symptom of cancer but a result of biliary dysfunction.
Lymphoma causes itching
Itching is a common symptom of cutaneous lymphoma: T-cell lymphoma and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Itching can be caused by chemicals released by the patient’s immune system in response to the lymphoma cells. Itching is much less common in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
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Polycythemia vera is one of the slow-growing blood cancers. It belongs to a group called myeloproliferative tumors, and itching may be one of the common symptoms. Itching may appear after a hot shower or bath.
Itching as a side effect of cancer treatment
In cancer patients, itchy skin may occur in response to some treatments. Some drugs used in cancer therapy can lead to the so-called cholestasis, i.e. impaired drainage of bile from the liver to the duodenum. A common symptom of cholestasis is itchy skin.
When Can Itch Signs Of Cancer?
While it can be difficult to distinguish itching from cancer from itching from other causes, there are some tips you can help. This type of itching is known as generalized itching.
The itching of the skin caused by a tumor may not be any different from the usual itching caused by irritation. However, there are some features that can be a wake-up call.
Signs of cancer-related itching can include:
- itching when in contact with water water itching,
- no primary rash or hives
- the presence of other signs of cancer, e.g. jaundice or symptoms of lymphoma, which include fever, weight loss, and heavy night sweats
- Cancer-related itching may be felt most strongly around the legs and chest, perhaps feeling like a burning sensation.
Why is your skin itchy?
Itchy skin, of course, doesn’t necessarily mean the worst, especially when the problem comes and goes, rather than persistently. The itching is often caused by more common problems or conditions.
Other causes of itching:
- Allergic reaction,
- atopic dermatitis, the so-called eczema,
- dry skin,
- insect bites and bites,
- diabetes,
- HIV infection,
- iron deficiency anemia,
- liver disease
- kidney disease
- overactive thyroid gland
- shingles.
When to see a doctor with itchy skin?
If you are experiencing itchy skin or persist for a long time, make an appointment with your doctor.
Contact your doctor immediately if:
- itching lasts more than two days
- your urine is dark and like tea
- the skin not only itches, but also becomes yellowish,
- you scratch your skin and it causes wounds and abrasions,
- you have a rash that gets worse after using ointments or creams
- the skin is bright red or has blisters or scabs
- purulent lesions with an unpleasant smell appear on the skin,
- you can’t sleep through the night because of itching,
- in addition to itching, you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction: shortness of breath, hives or swelling of the face or throat.