Characteristics of skin itching caused by tumors

Written by Sun Ming Yue
Medical Oncology
Updated on September 06, 2024
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Skin itching caused by tumors is generally stubborn and persistent, but there are no visible symptoms on the surface of the skin. This is because the biological factors released by tumor cells stimulate the surrounding nerves, leading to itching. For example, malignant lymphomas, cancers of the external genitalia, and cancers in female patients all exhibit itching during their progression.

Beyond skin itching, some patients may experience varying degrees of skin damage, including the appearance of erythema, blisters, or erosion. If these areas become infected, they can lead to skin breakdown and exudation. In addition to these symptoms, some patients may also experience skin thickening and scaling, as well as itching of the nose, anus, and genitals. There are many types of tumors that can cause itching, such as tumors on the forehead, rectum, colon, vagina, cervix, prostate, etc. Therefore, if a patient experiences symptoms of skin itching, it is crucial to maintain proper skin cleanliness promptly.

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How to relieve skin allergy itching caused by formaldehyde poisoning?

The patient, due to formaldehyde poisoning, has developed skin allergies and itching. It is important to remember not to scratch the affected areas, to promptly leave the environment containing the allergen, and to avoid exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet lamps. If the patient's condition is mild, bathing in salt water can be effective in alleviating the itchiness caused by the allergies. If the itching is more pronounced, oral administration of antihistamines such as cetirizine and loratadine can be used to relieve the symptoms. If the condition is particularly severe, it may be necessary to go to the hospital for infusion therapy. During the infusion, medications that enhance the body's immune system and corticosteroids for symptomatic treatment may be administered. Additionally, during the allergic reaction phase, the patient should avoid using cosmetics and refrain from consuming potentially irritating foods like fish and shrimp, to prevent exacerbating the allergic reaction.

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Is itching a precursor to cancer?

Most cases of skin itching are not directly related to cancer. Itchy skin is mainly associated with allergies or dry skin, and a reduction in the secretion of sebaceous glands. Some patients experience itching due to long-term diabetes, and it is most commonly seen in the elderly. Some elderly people also develop chronic itching due to frequently bathing in hot water. Once itchy skin occurs, treatment at the dermatology department of a formal hospital with anti-allergy medication is generally sufficient. Avoid bathing in overly hot water, spicy and irritant foods, and staying up late. After bathing, it is advisable to use a moisturizer extensively. While this condition generally has no correlation with cancer, some patients diagnosed with cancer may also experience itching, though it is not related to the simple presence of itchy skin.

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How to treat dry and itchy skin?

For dry skin accompanied by itching, which is diagnosed as dry eczema, it is necessary to enhance skin moisturizing care, drink more water, and timely use medical skin care products such as soft moisturizing cream after bathing with warm water. It is encouraged to drink Ophiopogon japonicus, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and a moderate amount of nuts, avoid spicy, stimulating, and fried foods, and take oral medications such as cetirizine tablets, moisturizing and anti-itch capsules, vitamin B1 tablets, and vitamin E. For itchy areas of the skin, topical application of dampness-removing and itch-relieving cream, heparin sodium cream, and other medications can be used. The key is to strengthen the daily repair of the skin barrier and reduce the use of alkaline substances. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Can you eat fish and eggs if you have itchy skin?

Skin itching generally means that you should not eat fish and eggs. There are many reasons for skin itching, which are usually related to dry climate, humid air, excessive stress, and autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, consuming foods that are likely to cause allergies, such as beef, mutton, seafood, fish, shrimp, crab, etc., are also related. Therefore, when experiencing skin itching, you should try to have a light diet, eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, drink more water, avoid spicy and irritant foods, abstain from alcohol, and avoid eating chili peppers, etc. Egg juice contains heterologous proteins, and the strong smell of fish can also exacerbate allergy symptoms, so it is not recommended to eat certain types of fish or seafood. If you experience skin itching, it is advisable to visit the dermatology department of a local reputable hospital for diagnosis and treatment.

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Can I eat grapes if I have itchy skin?

Eating grapes is generally acceptable for skin itchiness. Grapes have a neutral nature and a sweet-sour taste. They are rich in glucose and fruit acids, and contain potassium, iron, phosphorus, calcium, and other trace elements as well as an abundance of vitamins. Traditional Chinese Medicine states that grapes have effects such as replenishing qi and blood, strengthening muscles and bones, generating seminal fluid, enhancing spleen and appetite, and promoting diuresis and reducing swelling. Clinically, there are very few cases of grape consumption causing allergic skin itchiness.