The Itchy Truth: Uncovering the Causes of Underarm Rash
Rare but Possible Causes of Underarm Rash
It’s essential to consider the possibility of underlying conditions that may be causing your itchy underarms. Although rare, some types of cancer can cause itching in the underarm area.
Lymphoma
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
- 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 Common Causes of Underarm Rashes and Itching
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
Some less common itchy skin conditions that may affect the underarm area include:
- 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.
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