While an itchy patch of skin is usually nothing more than a minor irritation, a leading cancer specialist has issued a stark warning: in some cases, it could be a sign of a serious underlying condition. Dr Amit Garg, an oncologist based in California, has highlighted four specific types of cancer where persistent itching can be a notable symptom.
When to Take Notice of Persistent Itching
Itching is a common experience, often triggered by dry skin, insect bites, or fabrics like wool. It can also signal common skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. However, Dr Garg emphasises that when itching is severe, generalised, or accompanied by other specific symptoms, it should not be ignored and warrants a discussion with a GP.
The key message is that itching alone is rarely a sign of cancer, but its presence alongside other changes in the body can be a crucial clue for doctors. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for all cancers.
1. Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma is a rare cancer affecting the lymphatic system. Dr Garg notes it can cause "severe, generalised itching" that often intensifies at night. The NHS lists this as a symptom alongside others, including:
- A painless lump or swelling in the neck, armpit, or groin.
- Night sweats and a high temperature.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Pain in lymph nodes after drinking alcohol.
The NHS advises seeing a GP if you experience any of these symptoms to rule out this possibility.
2. Polycythemia Vera
This is a slow-growing blood cancer where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells. A hallmark symptom is itchy skin, particularly after a warm bath or shower. Other signs of this condition, known as erythrocytosis, include:
- Headaches, blurred vision, and dizziness.
- Reddened skin, especially on the face, hands, and feet.
- Tiredness and high blood pressure.
- Bleeding problems like nosebleeds.
3. Gallbladder and Pancreatic Cancer
These cancers share several symptoms, and intense itching can be one of them. Dr Garg explains this is caused by a build-up of bile salts in the skin. According to the NHS, this itching may occur alongside:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
- Dark urine and pale stools.
- Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss.
The main difference is the location of pain: gallbladder cancer may cause an ache on the right side of the abdomen, while pancreatic cancer pain is often felt in the upper abdomen and back.
4. Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
This is a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that starts in the skin. It often appears as flat, red, and itchy patches that can be mistaken for eczema or psoriasis in the early stages. Cancer Research UK states only around 150 people in the UK are diagnosed with this each year. Any new, persistent, or changing skin rash should be checked by a GP.
Key Advice from Health Authorities
The consistent advice from medical professionals is clear: do not panic, but do be proactive. Book an appointment with your GP if you have experienced symptoms for more than two weeks, or if you have lost a significant amount of weight without trying. Call NHS 111 if you have been vomiting for over two days, have had diarrhoea for more than a week, or notice your skin or eyes turning yellow.
For more information and support on cancer symptoms and diagnosis, visit the Cancer Research UK website.
