Itchy skin is a common complaint that affects millions of individuals worldwide. For most, it’s a trivial annoyance caused by dry skin, allergies, or insect bites. However, ongoing or unexplained itchy skin may, in some instances, be indicative of a more serious underlying condition, which is skin cancer. Identifying the warning signs early is imperative for early diagnosis and successful treatment.
One of the most highly developed skin cancer treatments is Mohs surgery, a highly accurate surgical procedure that excises cancerous tissue and spares as much healthy skin as it can. In this blog, we discuss the connection between itchy skin and skin cancer, so you know when to consult a dermatologist and how Mohs surgery is integral to treatment.
What Is Itchy Skin and When Should You Be Worried?
Itchy skin, or pruritus, can be caused by various factors, including a dry climate, eczema, allergies, or infection. However, if the itching is chronic, localized to one area, or accompanied by redness, scaling, or a change in a mole or skin lesion, it warrants a more thorough examination.
In some exceptional instances, itchy skin could be a sign of skin cancer, particularly if the itch persists and fails to respond to basic therapies. Skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma may result in irritation or itching because growing cancer cells invade nearby tissues.
How Is Itchy Skin Related to Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer usually starts with mild symptoms that most people may neglect. One of the symptoms may be itchy skin, accompanied by a new growth, a changing mole, or an unhealing sore. For instance, squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a scaly patch that is rough and itchy or even bleeds.
Basal cell skin cancer, the most common of all skin cancers, may present as a persistent and itchy bump or sore. Melanoma, although less frequent, is more severe and may, in some cases, cause itching around or within an evolving mole.
Since itchy skin is a common symptom of many benign diseases, it is essential to pay close attention to any abnormal or chronic skin changes and consult a dermatologist promptly.
Diagnosis of Skin Cancer and Mohs Surgery’s Role
If your dermatologist has a suspicion of skin cancer, they may conduct a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor.
Mohs surgery is widely regarded as the gold standard for treating many types of skin cancer, mainly basal and squamous cell carcinomas. This technique involves removing the cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining it microscopically during the procedure to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated while sparing healthy skin.
Mohs surgery has the highest rates of cure and reduces scarring, making it particularly useful for cancers in areas of cosmetic concern, such as the face or hands.
When to Visit a Dermatologist For Itchy Skin
Not everything that itches is skin cancer, but caution is necessary. You should visit a dermatologist if you have:
- Unrelenting itching in one spot that fails to get better
- Unchanging or new mole or skin growth that itches, crusts, or bleeds
- Unhealing sore or skin patch that takes a few weeks
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness with itching
Early detection is a crucial factor in improving the likelihood of cure, and Mohs surgery is a highly effective solution when skin cancer is detected at an early stage.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Itchy Skin
Although itchy skin is usually harmless, it may occasionally be a sign of skin cancer. Being attentive to your own body, observing skin changes, and getting timely medical consultation are essential measures to safeguard your health.
If skin cancer is diagnosed, cutting-edge treatments such as Mohs surgery offer precise, effective treatment with outstanding results. Always see a board-certified dermatologist if you’re concerned about long-lasting itchy skin or suspicious spots.
