Itchy skin, medically referred to as pruritus, is a condition that causes the sensation of irritation followed by discomfort and an uncontrollable urge to scratch the skin for relief. The causes of itchy skin can be many, but pruritus is generally harmless. However, if you experience itchy skin regularly, this could be an indication of certain types of cancers. Also, it could be a side reaction due to some cancer treatments. But which type of cancer is linked with itchy skin? Read on to find out.
Types of Cancers That Can Lead to Itchy Skin
Pruritis is linked to the following types of cancers:
- Skin cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Liver cancer
- Bone marrow cancer such as leukemias and multiple myeloma
- Lymphatic cancer
- Blood cancer
Let us understand these different types of cancers that can produce the symptoms of pruritus in detail.
Skin Cancer Causing Pruritus
Skin cancer is mostly associated with pain, swelling, tenderness, or unusual spot of the skin than itchiness. However, cancer can potentially stimulate and irritate the nerve endings in the skin which causes an itching sensation.
Pancreatic Cancer Leading to Pruritus
Excessive itching can result due to pancreatic cancer. However, itching cannot directly indicate the presence of cancer. It could also be a symptom of Jaundice, which is caused by the blockages in the bile duct because of tumors that causes the chemicals in the bile to enter the skin and give rise to itching.
Liver cancer Causing Pruritus
Itching can be one of the symptoms of liver cancer, the condition which turns your skin, and the white areas of your eyes appear yellow in color. In addition, you may also have darker pee and your stools might seem paler than usual.
Lymphoma Leading to Pruritus
Lymphoma is a type of lymphatic cancer that impacts the function of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels, and glands that perform an essential role in immunity. The condition particularly affects white blood cells which are known as lymphocytes.
During this condition, the immune system releases various chemicals into the body to fight against lymphoma. The nerve ending reacts to these chemicals post-interactions which can cause itching on the surface of the skin.
Polycythemia Vera (PV)
Polycythemia Vera is a type of blood cancer that causes the bone marrow to produce excess red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. This condition usually results due to genetic mutations. One of the symptoms of PV is itchy skin which gets irritated when the skin surface meets water.
When to Talk to a Doctor?
Rather than sitting and speculating, it is better to see a doctor to help you identify the real reason behind your itchy skin. See your doctor if:
- Itching persists for more than two days
- Skin turned yellowish
- Urine turned into a darker color
- Uncontrollable urge to scratch the skin to the point where it bleeds
- Rashes worsens
- Blisters developed on the skin
- Pus is oozing from the skin
- Hives or swelling on the face and throat
Moreover, itching doesn’t always necessarily indicate the presence of cancer. It could be due to some skin allergy conditions such as Eczema which causes dry, scaly, itchy, and inflamed skin. This condition can be irritating although it is not contagious.
Some researchers state that men with Eczema have a higher risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) due to the underlying inflammation of the skin which can hinder the blood flow to the reproductive organs, leading to impotence. It is necessary to consult your doctor and seek medical assistance. For this condition Doctor would suggest you to take Ed pills like Tadagra to fulfill your sexual desire by maintain an erection for a longer time.
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