Why do hands and feet itch in leukemia?
Disease description:
I have a friend with leukemia who says his hands and feet have been extremely itchy since being diagnosed. I'd like to inquire about the cause of such itching in leukemia patients.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
Leukemia is a malignant tumor that affects the bone marrow and blood, leading to an increase in abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells can interfere with the production of normal blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Itching in the hands and feet is not common among leukemia patients, but if it occurs, it may be related to several factors. First, chemotherapy drugs or other treatments may cause dryness and sensitivity of the skin, resulting in itching. Second, leukemia itself or its treatment may affect liver function, leading to bile stasis, which in turn causes itching. Additionally, due to impaired immune systems, leukemia patients are prone to infections, and certain infections may also cause skin symptoms, including itching. If a leukemia patient experiences itching in the hands or feet, they should promptly consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
