Differential Diagnosis for Body Itching
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Dry skin (xerosis): This is the most common cause of body itching, especially in older adults or during dry weather. Itching can be widespread and is often accompanied by dry, scaly skin.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and is often associated with allergies or asthma.
- Allergic reactions: Allergic contact dermatitis or urticaria can cause body itching, often with a rash or hives. Common allergens include metals, latex, or certain foods.
- Insect bites or stings: Itching can be caused by bites from mosquitoes, fleas, or bed bugs, or stings from bees or wasps.
- Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin, often accompanied by itching.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Malignancy (e.g., lymphoma, leukemia): Itching can be a symptom of certain types of cancer, especially if it is severe, persistent, and unexplained.
- Liver disease (e.g., primary biliary cirrhosis): Itching can be a symptom of liver disease, often due to the buildup of bile salts in the skin.
- Kidney disease: Itching can be a symptom of kidney failure, especially in patients with end-stage renal disease.
- Thyroid disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause itching, often due to changes in skin sensation or dry skin.
- Rare diagnoses
- Neurological disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy): Certain neurological conditions can cause itching, often due to damage to nerve fibers.
- Parasitic infections (e.g., scabies, lice): Itching can be caused by parasitic infections, often with a characteristic rash or skin lesions.
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12 deficiency): Certain nutritional deficiencies can cause itching, often due to changes in skin sensation or dry skin.
- Cholestasis: A condition characterized by the buildup of bile in the skin, often causing itching and jaundice.