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Itch with liver pNets

Posted by billbo @billbo, 1 day ago

Has anyone experienced intense bouts of overall body itch as result of liver malfunctioning due to pNets metastasis to liver?

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mcharlesfrancis | @mcharlesfrancis | 10 hours ago

Yes, some people with liver metastases from pancreatic NETs do experience intense itching, especially if the liver is not functioning normally or if there is impaired bile flow.

Itching can occur when bile acids build up in the bloodstream, even before jaundice becomes obvious. It can range from mild to severe and can affect the entire body.

If this is a new symptom, I would let your oncology team know as soon as possible. They may want to check liver function tests, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and imaging to see whether the itching is related to the liver or another cause. Sometimes medications can also contribute.

The good news is that there are treatments that can help if the itching is due to liver dysfunction or bile acid buildup, so it's worth bringing it to your doctor's attention rather than trying to manage it on your own.

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billbo | @billbo | 9 hours ago
In reply to @mcharlesfrancis "Yes, some people with liver metastases from pancreatic NETs do experience intense itching, especially if the..." + (show)
Profile picture for mcharlesfrancis @mcharlesfrancis

Yes, some people with liver metastases from pancreatic NETs do experience intense itching, especially if the liver is not functioning normally or if there is impaired bile flow.

Itching can occur when bile acids build up in the bloodstream, even before jaundice becomes obvious. It can range from mild to severe and can affect the entire body.

If this is a new symptom, I would let your oncology team know as soon as possible. They may want to check liver function tests, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and imaging to see whether the itching is related to the liver or another cause. Sometimes medications can also contribute.

The good news is that there are treatments that can help if the itching is due to liver dysfunction or bile acid buildup, so it's worth bringing it to your doctor's attention rather than trying to manage it on your own.

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@mcharlesfrancis what would those treatments be?

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