She Strengthens

The Itchy Truth: Uncovering the Causes of Underarm Rash

Are you worried that your itchy underarms might be a sign of something serious? Take a deep breath and let’s explore the possible reasons behind that annoying itch.

Lymphoma: A Rare but Possible Cause

Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system, can cause itching in some cases. About 30% of people with Hodgkin’s lymphoma experience itching before and during the disease’s progression. The rash can appear scaly or similar to eczema, accompanied by other symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and fever.

Other Types of Cancer: Cutaneous T-Cell and B-Cell Lymphomas

In these rare types of cancer, rogue white blood cells attack the skin. B-cell lymphoma appears as a nodule under the skin, while cutaneous T-cell lymphoma causes itching in 62-83% of patients. The rash looks like raised round patches that may be scaly and itchy.

Breast Health: Inflammatory Breast Cancer

If you’re concerned about itching in the underarm area, you might wonder if it’s related to breast health. Inflammatory breast cancer can cause itching, swelling, redness, and thickening of the skin. However, an infection is a more likely cause of tenderness, redness, warmth, and itching.

More Likely Reasons for Itchy Pits

Now that we’ve covered the rare possibilities, let’s look at some more common causes of underarm rashes and itching:

• Eczema: A chronic itchy, red, scaly rash that can thicken over time and lead to infections.
• Fungal and Bacterial Infections: Warm, moist areas like the armpits are ideal habitats for micro-critters, causing itching and odor.
• Intertrigo: A rash that develops in damp places where skin rubs together, leading to yeast or bacterial infection.
• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: A rash caused by contact with chemicals or moisture, which can be triggered by soaps, foods, or fabrics.
• Heat Rash: A rash triggered by heat and sweat, also known as prickly heat.
• Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating that can cause skin irritation and itching.

Less Common Itchy Skin Conditions

• Seborrheic Dermatitis: A chronic inflammatory skin disease that occurs on the scalp, face, chest, back, underarms, and groin.
• Apocrine Miliaria: A rare condition that causes an itchy rash in areas near apocrine glands, triggered by stress, excitement, sweating, and hot weather.
• Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A condition that causes deep, painful nodules under the arms, in the underboob area, and in the groin and booty areas.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Don’t ignore symptoms that trouble you, especially if:

• You suspect lymphoma or inflammatory breast cancer based on your symptoms.
• Your symptoms don’t improve in a week.
• You notice an unusual odor or signs of infection like redness or fever.

Prevention is Key

To avoid itchy pits, remember to:

• Wash regularly with a non-irritating soap.
• Test deodorants and antiperspirants on a small area of skin first.
• Stay cool and hydrated when it’s hot.

The Bottom Line

While itching in the underarm area can be a sign of some forms of cancer, it’s not a likely first symptom. Trust your gut and see a doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen over time. It’s far more likely that your itchy pits are due to a common skin condition, and a professional can provide the relief you need.