Question

I’ve had mild intermittent eczema all my life and this has been worse since developing ME/CFS. More recently I’ve noticed a more widespread skin irritation that isn’t associated with patches of eczema. Should I be concerned?

Answer

Generalised itching of the skin (doctors call this ‘pruritis') is NOT a diagnostic symptom of ME/CFS. You must go and talk to your doctor about this – if you have not already done so. The cause may be something quite simple and straightforward. Unless the cause is obvious, your GP might want to do some blood tests to make sure that this itching isn't linked to another medical problem.

• Primary Care Dermatology Society: Pruritus (itch) – without a rash | March 2022

There are a number of systemic medical conditions, some of which have fatigue and ME/CFS-like symptoms, that cause more generalised itching of the skin without a rash being present.

One example of a condition that can cause pruritis and fatigue is primary biliary cirrhosis – this is often asymptomatic for some time. Symptoms include itching and fatigue, and, later, jaundice. There is a strong association with anti-mitochondrial antibodies. Standard liver function tests usually show a cholestatic pattern with elevation of serum alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyl transferase. Serum immunoglobulins, particularly immunoglobulin M (IgM), are usually elevated.

The NHS Itchy Skin | July 2020

See a GP if itchy skin:

• • is affecting your daily life,
  • does not get better with self-care or it keeps coming back,
  • is caused by a new rash, lump or swelling that you're worried about,
  • is all over your body; this could be a sign of something more serious.

Causes of itchy skin

Itchy skin has many possible causes. If you have other symptoms (such as a rash or swelling) this might help to find the cause. But do not try to diagnose yourself. See a GP if you're worried.

Itchy skin is also common during pregnancy or after the menopause. This is caused by hormonal changes and usually gets better over time. In rare cases, itchy skin can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as thyroid, liver, or kidney problems.