What type of specialist should I consult for itching all over my body?

What Specialist Should You See for Generalized Itching?

Start with a dermatologist, as they are the primary specialists for evaluating and managing generalized pruritus (itching all over), and they will coordinate any necessary referrals to other specialists based on initial workup findings. 1

Why Dermatology First?

• Dermatologists are trained to systematically evaluate generalized pruritus and distinguish between primary skin conditions and systemic causes requiring specialist referral 2, 3
• The British Association of Dermatologists provides comprehensive guidelines specifically for investigating generalized pruritus without an underlying rash, making dermatology the natural starting point 1
• Initial laboratory screening can be ordered by dermatology to identify the underlying cause before determining if specialist referral is needed 2, 3

When Dermatology Will Refer to Other Specialists

Based on initial evaluation and testing, your dermatologist may refer you to:

Hematology Referral 1

• If blood work suggests polycythemia vera (elevated hemoglobin/hematocrit with JAK2 mutation) 1
• If lymphoma is suspected based on abnormal blood counts, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, or persistent unexplained pruritus 1
• If iron overload or significant blood disorders are identified 1

Hepatology (Liver Specialist) Referral 1

• Any suggestion of significant hepatic impairment on liver function tests requires hepatology consultation 1
• Cholestatic liver disease (elevated bile acids, antimitochondrial antibodies) needs specialist management 1

Nephrology (Kidney Specialist) Referral 1

• If uremia or chronic kidney disease is identified on urea and electrolytes testing 1
• Dialysis patients with persistent pruritus may need nephrology optimization of dialysis parameters 1

Neurology Referral 1

• If neuropathic pruritus is suspected after detailed history and examination (burning, tingling, dermatomal distribution) 1
• Only if clinically indicated by symptoms suggesting nervous system pathology 1

Infectious Disease Referral 1

• If HIV, hepatitis, or parasitic infections (malaria, strongyloidiasis, schistosomiasis) are identified, particularly with relevant travel history 1

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Do not start with multiple specialist consultations simultaneously. The dermatologist will perform a systematic workup including complete blood count with ferritin, liver function tests, urea and electrolytes, and targeted testing based on your history 2, 3. This prevents unnecessary testing and ensures appropriate specialist referral only when indicated 1.

What to Expect at Your Dermatology Appointment

• Comprehensive medication review to identify drug-induced causes 3
• Focused laboratory workup including blood counts, liver/kidney function, and consideration of HIV/hepatitis serology based on risk factors 3
• Initial treatment trial with emollients and non-sedating antihistamines while awaiting test results 3
• Referral coordination to appropriate specialists if systemic disease is identified 2, 3