Guide To The Symptoms Of Lymphoma

Itchy Skin

Itchy skin can be another symptom of lymphoma. Constant itching and skin irritation can point to cancer. However, it is more common for it to indicate an allergic reaction or skin sensitivity. Because of this, many doctors do not recognize the true underlying cause for a significant period. In one case, a patient could not get rid of their rash with normal anti-allergy measures, so they took prescribed steroids. While that helped with the visible irritation, there was still an ongoing itch. This, combined with night sweats and fatigue, led to the cancer diagnosis. 

An itch by itself is usually not a sign of lymphoma, but it can be. The itching is not always severe, though many individuals do experience uncontrollable sensations. In some cases, it may feel like a burning or stinging sensation. Approximately one out of every three Hodgkin's lymphoma patients deals with itching. In contrast, one out of every ten non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients experiences itching. Patients are most likely to feel it in their lower legs, patches of lymphoma on the skin, and areas close to their lymph nodes. However, some individuals experience it in their entire body.