Notalgia paresthetica(NP) is not associated with cancer.
However, it is a sign of a pinched spinal nerve.
Peter Dazeley / Getty Images
Itchy Skin and Cancer
Itchy skin is associated with several cancers.
Peter Dazeley / Getty Images
However, the itchy back triggered by notalgia paresthetica is not a sign of cancer.
Notalgia paresthetica isn’t linked with and doesn’t increase your risk for any cancer.
The cancers associated with itchiness includeHodgkin lymphoma,melanoma,polycythemia vera, and certain gastrointestinal cancers.
MEN2A can also causecutaneous lichenamyloidosis.
This skin condition results in itchy patches of thick, scaly, bumpy, reddish-brown skin.
The patches are usually on the shins but may appear in the upper back.
Nerves from the spinal cord travel through the back muscles to the skin.
These sensations are usually on one side of the body, between the shoulder blade and spine.
Scratching can temporarily relieve the itch, but your symptoms will return.
The area may have a changed sensation or be unable to sweat.
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider can usually diagnose NP based on your symptoms and an exam.
It is unclear how common notalgia paresthetica is, but it’s likely underdiagnosed.
It can come and go or stay for months or years.
Its most common in women age 5462.
Excessive scratching may cause red lines and skin changes.
Varied topical and oral treatments can relieve symptoms for a time.
Physical therapy or surgery may offer more long-lasting relief.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.Is itching a sign of cancer?
Massachusetts General Hospital.Multiple endocrine neoplasia pop in 2 (MEN2): Causes and symptoms.
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Notalgia paresthetica.
Mulkoglu C, Nacr B.Notalgia paresthetica: clinical features, radiological evaluation, and a novel therapeutic option.BMC Neurol.
2020;20(1):191. doi:10.1186/s12883-020-01773-6
