Find out how itching can indicate a silent type of cancer

Credits: AsiaVision/istock

Itching may occur in a specific type of cancer

Itching may seem like a common, benign symptom, sometimes associated with allergies or dry skin. However, in some cases, especially when persistent and without an apparent cause, it can be a warning sign for a silent cancer, pancreatic cancer.

As it is not an exclusive symptom of this type of cancer, when combined with other specific signs and symptoms, it may require further investigation.

What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease that often presents with silent and vague symptoms.

This is because the pancreas is located deep in the abdomen, which can delay detection of tumors at earlier stages. However, as the cancer progresses, it can cause a range of symptoms, including itchiness.

Credits: Depositphotos/vitalio333

Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late due to the absence of obvious symptoms.

Itching in pancreatic cancer

The itching associated with pancreatic cancer is known as intractable itch. It is a persistent and intense itch that is not relieved by conventional treatments for skin problems, such as moisturizing lotions or antihistamines.

The reason behind this itching could be the increased bilirubin levels in the blood.

The pancreas plays a crucial role in producing digestive enzymes and regulating blood sugar levels.

So, when a tumor develops in the pancreas, it can obstruct the bile duct or pancreatic duct, interfering with the release of digestive enzymes and bile produced by the gallbladder.

Consequently, this can result in the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, a yellow substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.

Increased levels of bilirubin in the blood, in turn, can cause a characteristic symptom called jaundice, which manifests as yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Additionally, elevated bilirubin in the bloodstream can be deposited on the skin, leading to intractable itching.

Sometimes the itch of pancreatic cancer is more intense on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, but it can occur anywhere on the body.

She tends to get worse at night and can significantly interfere with a person’s quality of life, affecting sleep and causing physical and emotional discomfort.