The types of cancers that were most commonly associated with itching included:
- blood-related cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
- bile duct cancer.
- gallbladder cancer.
- liver cancer.
- skin cancer.
How do you know when itching is serious?
When to see a doctor. See your doctor or a skin disease specialist (dermatologist) if the itching: Lasts more than two weeks and doesn't improve with self-care measures. Is severe and distracts you from your daily routines or prevents you from sleeping.
Is itching a side effect of cancer?
Itching can be caused by cancer treatment or the cancer itself. Cancers that involve the skin or have spread to the skin, such as malignant melanoma, leukemia and lymphoma, commonly cause itching. Itching may also be caused by the body's inability to clear certain toxins due to kidney or liver problems.
