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what cancer can cause itchy skin?

Understanding the Link Between Cancer and Itchy Skin

Itchy skin, medically known as pruritus, can be an unsettling symptom. While it is often caused by benign conditions, certain types of cancer can also lead to itching. Below, we explore the cancers that are most commonly associated with itchy skin.[5][6][7]

Types of Cancer That Can Cause Itchy Skin

Skin Cancer
- Skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, can cause localized itching. These cancers can cause changes in the skin, such as lesions that become itchy over time [6].
Lymphoma
- Both Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can cause generalized itching. This itching is often due to the body’s immune response to the cancer and can be quite severe [1, 4].

Polycythemia Vera (PV)
- This is a rare blood cancer that leads to an overproduction of red blood cells. PV can cause intense itching, particularly after a hot shower or bath, due to the increased histamine release from the high number of blood cells [3, 4].
Pancreatic Cancer
- Although less common, pancreatic cancer can also cause itching. This is often related to jaundice, which occurs when a tumor blocks the bile duct, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the skin [3].
Gastrointestinal Cancers
- Certain gastrointestinal cancers, such as those affecting the liver, can cause itching due to bile duct obstruction and the resultant buildup of bile salts in the skin [4].

Treatment and Management

Addressing the underlying cancer often helps in relieving the itching. In addition, there are symptomatic treatments such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other medications to help manage the itch[1][2].

Conclusion

While itchy skin is often harmless and linked to benign conditions, persistent or severe itching should not be ignored, as it could be a sign of an underlying malignancy. Consulting with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial.

what cancer can cause itchy skin?