Skin Changes to Watch for with Blood Cancers Like Leukemia and Lymphoma

Understanding the Skin Changes That Can Occur With Blood Cancers

When someone is diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma, it often comes as a shock. These cancers affect the bone marrow and blood cells, but many people don't realize that they can also lead to skin changes and problems.

The skin is the largest organ in the body, so it makes sense that diseases of the blood and bone marrow can manifest in various ways on the skin's surface. Being aware of the potential skin-related issues that may arise can help blood cancer patients and their loved ones know what to look out for.

Why Blood Cancers Can Cause Skin Problems

There are a few reasons why blood cancers often lead to skin changes:

• Low blood cell counts - Many blood cancers cause low levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This can make the skin more vulnerable to problems like infections, bruising, and rashes.
• Infiltration by cancer cells - In some cases, blood cancer cells themselves can infiltrate the skin, causing visible growths or changes in skin color.
• Medication side effects - Chemotherapy medicines, targeted therapies, immunosuppressants, and other drugs used to treat blood cancers can sometimes have skin-related side effects like rashes, dryness, or increased sun sensitivity.

Common Skin Issues Associated With Blood Cancers

Some of the most common skin problems that may develop in someone with a type of blood cancer include:

Rashes

Rashes can have many underlying causes, from infections to medication reactions. Blood cancer patients may be more prone to certain rashes, like:

• Petechiae - Tiny red or purple dots under the skin caused by bleeding.
• Purpura - Purple blotchy rash caused by bleeding under the skin.
• Maculopapular rash - Raised red bumps that may be itchy, from an allergic reaction.
• Vasculitic rash - Red or purple bumps caused by inflamed blood vessels.

Bruising

Unexplained or excessive bruising is common with blood cancers. Low platelet counts prevent the blood from clotting effectively so even minor bumps can result in noticeable bruises.

Dry, Itchy Skin

Chemotherapy can dry out and irritate the skin. This discomfort may be amplified for those already starting out with compromised skin due to their cancer.

Jaundice

In some blood cancers, cancer cells infiltrate the liver, causing it to malfunction. This leads to a buildup of bilirubin that makes the skin appear yellow or jaundiced.

Night Sweats

Drenching night sweats that soak through the bedsheets can be an early sign of a blood cancer like lymphoma. The sweats are thought to be caused by cytokines released by cancer cells.

Itching

Some blood cancers make people extremely itchy, especially Hodgkin lymphoma. Itching may result from the release of cytokines, increased histamine production, or skin dryness.

Swelling

Lymphatic disorders linked to blood cancers can cause fluid buildup and swelling in the limbs or face.

Pallor

Anemia from low red blood cell counts can make the skin appear very pale.

Hair Loss

Hair loss is a notorious side effect of chemotherapy. Not only does the scalp hair fall out, but also the eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.

Infections

Blood cancer patients are more vulnerable to skin infections like cellulitis, shingles, warts, molluscum, and herpes. This is due to chemotherapy damaging the skin and weakening the immune system.

Skin Cancer

The chemotherapy and immunosuppressant medications used to treat blood cancers increase skin cancer risk. Patients should take care to avoid excess sun exposure.

When to See a Doctor

It's important for blood cancer patients to have any new, changing, or severe skin problems evaluated promptly. Early treatment can help prevent complications. Seek emergency care for any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to swelling in the face or neck
• Sudden, severe bruising or bleeding from the skin
• Painful rash that develops and spreads quickly
• Rash with fever, blisters, or ulcers
• Signs of infection like pus, redness, warmth or red streaks

Make an appointment with your oncology team if you have any persistent, uncomfortable, or concerning skin issues. Don't hesitate to ask questions or mention subtle changes you notice on your skin.

Tips for Managing Blood Cancer Skin Problems

While some skin changes and issues resulting from blood cancers can't be prevented, the following self-care tips may help soothe and minimize their impact:

• Use mild cleansers and moisturize frequently to avoid dry, itchy skin.
• Avoid fragranced products that can cause irritation.
• Apply sunscreen daily due to increased sun sensitivity.
• Wear loose cotton clothing that won't rub on rashes or bruises.
• Avoid hot tubs and swimming pools if you have an open rash or wound.
• Use an electric shaver instead of razor blades to avoid nicks and cuts while shaving.
• Pat yourself dry after bathing rather than rubbing.
• Apply cool compresses to soothe itchy or irritated areas.
• Keep skin infections covered until treated.
• Drink plenty of fluids and use a humidifier if you have night sweats.

The Takeaway

Blood cancers affect more than just the bone marrow and blood cells. Skin changes are also very common due to lowered blood counts, infiltration of cancer cells, and side effects from treatments.

Being vigilant about the skin and recognizing problems early provides the best chance for effective treatment. Patients shouldn't hesitate to bring up any concerns about their skin with their medical team.

With attentive skin care and monitoring, many annoying but non-dangerous skin issues related to blood cancers can be managed. Seeking prompt treatment for more severe problems can prevent serious complications.

Living with a blood cancer often means coping with new skin challenges. But with the support of healthcare providers and proper skin care, most patients are able to handle these changes in stride and maintain their quality of life.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.