Is your skin sending you a message? You may not know it, but itchy skin can be a symptom of certain types of cancer. In this article, SIE Medical explains how certain cancers can cause itchy skin and how to tell the difference between minor skin irritation and something more serious.
How Can Cancer Cause Itchy Skin?
Puritus. That’s the fancy medical term for itchy skin. Itchy skin is your body’s way of signaling inflammation, irritation, or an imbalance.
Cancer and the changes it causes in healthy cells can sometimes trigger these responses. Itchy skin in cancer patients can stem from several factors. The immune system’s response to abnormal cell growth, tumor pressure on nerves or organs, and side effects of treatments like chemotherapy or radiation (leading to dry skin and inflammation) are common causes. Additionally, hormonal shifts or liver dysfunction associated with cancer can contribute to the itching sensation.
It’s important to note that the cause of the itch often varies depending on the type and location of cancer.
4 Types of Cancers That Can Cause Itchy Skin
While rare, the following types of cancer have been linked to skin itching in some cases:
Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma can all cause changes to the skin—including itching, tenderness, or burning sensations—especially when a tumor is growing near or on a nerve. In some cases, itching is one of the first signs of a skin lesion that may need evaluation.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid hormones help regulate metabolism, circulation, and skin hydration. In thyroid cancer, these processes can become disrupted. Patients may experience dry, itchy skin due to slowed metabolism or autoimmune activity, particularly in conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis that may accompany thyroid cancer.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer or bile duct obstruction can lead to a buildup of bile salts in the bloodstream. This accumulation may cause widespread itching, particularly on the palms and soles. Because the liver plays a key role in detoxification, liver dysfunction often impacts the skin.
Brain Cancer (Affecting Sensory Nerves)
Although rare, brain tumors near sensory processing centers can disrupt nerve signals and cause phantom itching or tingling sensations. This type of itch may not have an external rash or trigger, making it difficult to trace without neurological testing.
Less Serious Causes of Itchy Skin
While cancer can cause itching in rare circumstances, most cases are caused by less serious issues, including:
- Dry skin (xerosis)
- Allergic reactions to personal care products, detergents, or foods, eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- Fungal or bacterial infections
- Hormonal imbalances or thyroid dysfunction (non-cancerous)
- Medication side effects
- Stress or anxiety
If you’re experiencing chronic or unexplained itching, it’s worth having it evaluated, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or visible skin changes.
Integrative Medicine Can Help You Find the Answers
At SIE Medical, our integrative oncology and wellness team takes the time to look at the whole picture. We investigate root causes, assess nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, immune dysfunction, and toxin exposure to uncover what’s contributing to your symptoms. If you’re experiencing chronic itching, we don’t just suppress it—we work to understand and resolve it from the inside out.
Whether you’re undergoing cancer care or simply want answers to an unresolved health issue, our team blends advanced diagnostics with natural therapies to support your body and bring relief.
If you’re wondering whether your symptoms could be connected to cancer—or if you’re looking for whole-body support during treatment—reach out to the experts at SIE Medical. We’re here to listen, evaluate, and guide you toward personalized answers and lasting wellness. Schedule your consultation today.
