Risk factors Pruritus may occur in some people with cancer but not in others. Pruritus tends to disappear when cancer is cured or in remission. It may reappear when the disease recurs. Usually the itching subsides within 30-90 minutes and does not require treatment. The development of pruritus may be a sign that the patient is especially sensitive to the chemotherapy drug.
Radiation can kill skin cells and cause burning and itching.
As the skin peels off, scratching can damage it further, which creates the potential for infection. Treatment may need to be interrupted to allow the skin time to heal. The combined effects of these drugs can cause an increased skin reaction. Patients may experience changes in skin condition that include dryness, itching, and rashes. Drugs given at any time during cancer treatment may cause pruritus.