Itchy skin? freckle itching.?

Question

Hi My wife has a lot of freckles on her back, the last couple of months she has had one particular freckle that has started itching a lot, I've had a look and although it is not raised it does seem slightly red around the edges,no bleeding and it does not look very angry, but it is there nonetheless.

Obviously I'm thinking skin cancer, she had blood test's a couple of months ago for an unrelated operation she had on her back; if anything untoward was going on would that have shown up? Also, if it is anything nasty what if anything can be done, this itchiness is only sporadic and not constant, but it is worrying; she has an appointment at the Doc's tomorrow, any help/ideas would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Skin itching is a common ailment. In most individuals it is a harmless sensation which lasts a few seconds. In others the itch may be prolonged and associated with a skin disorder. Skin itch has numerous causes and most are easily treatable. The most common causes of an itchy skin include:

- cold or hot weather

- dry environment (low humidity)

- prolonged use of air conditioning

- excessive bathing or showering which washes off the skin oils

- skin disorders like psoriasis

- dermatitis –which is basically dry skin with an itch

- infections such as lice, mites

- viral infections- chicken pox

- medical disorders- liver or kidney failure, hypothyroidism, cancers

- allergies to drugs, chemicals, metals, plants

- pregnancy

In most cases, the skin itch may be associated with the following findings:

- scratches or excoriations

- red patches

- blisters or swellings

- dry skin

- scaly skin

- rough texture of skin

Final Advice

In some cases, it is important to see a physician to treat the itching condition. A visit to the doctor is recommended if the itch:

http://www.dermanetwork.org/glossary/200...

Answer 2

You've done the right thing by seeing the doc tomorow. My dad had same thing and has had some removed. I had one that was raised and red and itching and the doc said it was fine and sometimes they do this, so just keep an eye on it. Good Luck

Answer 3

Could it be a young mole? I have 2, slightly raised red 'spots' on my back which itch sporadically. They've been there for a couple of years... unchanged. They seem to be a type of mole.

Cancerous freckles are never circular or 'even' shaped - so look for ragged edges and changes to shape and size.