Itchy Skin and Myeloma: Why and What to Do

Multiple myeloma can cause itchy skin. For a small percentage of people, it is a symptom of the cancer itself. Most often, it is a side effect of different treatments or other conditions related to multiple myeloma and its treatment.

Examples of problems related to myeloma leading to itchy skin include kidney problems, hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood), and skin infiltration by the myeloma cells. 

Itching can be frustrating and distracting. It can interrupt your sleep, affect your day-to-day quality of life, and cause discomfort. There may be ways to manage your itching skin. It is important to let your care team know if you develop itching. 

What causes itching skin when you have multiple myeloma

There are several different problems related to multiple myeloma that can cause itching skin. These include: 

Hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia is when there is too much calcium in the blood. This interferes with the body's nerve signals, causing itching. Hypercalcemia is one of the most frequent complications of multiple myeloma. This is because myeloma damages the bones, releasing more calcium than normal into the blood.

Kidney problems. Multiple myeloma can damage the kidneys and cause kidney disease. Advanced kidney disease can cause itching skin due to the build-up of waste in the kidneys. 

Disease infiltration. In rare cases, myeloma cells can infiltrate the skin. This is known as cutaneous plasmacytoma. It can cause skin irritation.

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS). CRS is the body's inflammatory response. It can trigger an itching sensation. CRS is a common side effect of some multiple myeloma treatments, including CAR-T and bispecific antibodies. 

Chemotherapy. Some types of chemotherapycan cause itchiness and dry skin.

Lenalidomide (Revlimid). This immunomodulatory drug can cause skin problems like itchiness.

Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy is sometimes used to treat bone that has been damaged by myeloma. Radiation therapy can cause itchiness and other skin problems like redness, blistering, and peeling in the area being treated.  

Weakened immune system. A weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to infections (such as shingles) or fungal infections that can cause itchy rashes. Multiple myeloma itself and some treatments can cause a weakened immune system.

How to manage itching skin

If you develop itchy skin, talk to your healthcare team. They can help you find relief for your itching skin, either using home remedies or medications.

How to manage your itching skin at home

Moisturize regularly. Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer or cream multiple times a day, especially after bathing.

Change bathing habits. Take short, lukewarm or cool baths or showers. Pat skin dry instead of rubbing it. 

Wear soft clothing. Choose loose-fitting clothing with soft, breathable fabrics. Avoid harsh fabrics, such as wool

Use compresses. Place a cool, damp cloth on itchy areas for relief instead of scratching.

Avoid scratching. Try to tap or squeeze the itchy area instead of scratching to avoid skin irritation or infection.

How to manage your itching skin with medication

There are a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help relieve itching. Always talk to your care team before trying over-the-counter solutions. 

Topical corticosteroids. These prescription or over-the-counter creams, gels, foams, or ointments can be applied directly onto the skin to reduce inflammation and itching. 

Oral antihistamines. Antihistamines are drugs that treat allergy symptoms. They can help relieve itching.

Prescription options. Your doctor may recommend other topical or oral medications, such as antibiotics, depending on the cause of the itching. 

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