As a medical expert, I am well-versed in the various conditions that can lead to systemic itching, also known as pruritus. Pruritus can be a symptom of a wide range of diseases and conditions, affecting the skin and sometimes even underlying internal issues. Here are some of the common causes of itching all over the body:


1. Skin Conditions: Dermatological conditions are a common source of itching. This includes eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis, which is often caused by exposure to allergens like poison ivy, poison oak, or certain chemicals.


2. Allergic Reactions: Allergies to medications, insect bites, or foods can lead to hives, also known as urticaria, which is characterized by red, itchy welts on the skin.


3. Infections: Various infections can cause itching, such as chickenpox, scabies, and fungal infections. These conditions often involve inflammation and immune responses that lead to the sensation of itchiness.


4. Liver and Kidney Disease: Dysfunction in these organs can lead to the buildup of waste products in the body, which can cause systemic itching.


5. Cancer: Certain types of skin cancers, such as mycosis fungoides and T-cell lymphomas, can present with itching as a symptom.


6. Neurological Disorders: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as notalgia paresthetica or brachioradial pruritus, can cause localized or generalized itching.

7.
Endocrine Disorders: Hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism, can also result in itching.

8.
Drug-Induced: Certain medications can have itching as a side effect, known as drug-induced pruritus.

9.
Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including itching.

10.
Environmental Factors: Dry skin from cold weather or exposure to harsh soaps and detergents can also lead to itching.

It's important to note that while these are some of the common causes, the exact cause of pruritus can vary greatly from person to person. A thorough medical examination, including a detailed patient history and possibly skin tests or blood work, is often necessary to pinpoint the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

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Itching can be caused by toxins on the skin (contact dermatitis, such as from poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, or grass oils), medications, liver disease, kidney disease, insect bites, hives (urticarial), rare forms of skin cancer (mycosis fungoides and T-cell lymphomas), infections (including chickenpox and ...May 4, 2017read more >>