Is a skin rash a side effect of myeloma treatment?
Yes, skin rashes are a common side effect of several myeloma treatments. Your skin may react to the medications used to fight the cancer, though myeloma itself rarely causes rashes directly.
Treatments that can cause skin rashes include:
- Chemotherapy - Can cause Show Full Answer
Is a skin rash a side effect of myeloma treatment?
Yes, skin rashes are a common side effect of several myeloma treatments. Your skin may react to the medications used to fight the cancer, though myeloma itself rarely causes rashes directly.
Treatments that can cause skin rashes include:
- Chemotherapy - Can cause rashes, itching, changes in skin color, burning sensations, and increased sun sensitivity
- Lenalidomide (Revlimid) - This immunomodulatory drug frequently causes rashes, affecting about 19% of people taking it
- Radiation therapy - Can cause sunburn-like rashes, swelling, dryness, and peeling in treated areas
- Immunotherapy - May also lead to skin rashes
- Stem cell or bone marrow transplants - Can cause graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), which may result in rashes, blisters, or skin thickening
A MyMyelomaTeam member shared: "I have a terrible, awful itchy rash. My doctor says it's related to chemo."
Be sure to tell your oncologist about any skin changes you experience. They can help manage these side effects and may refer you to a dermatologist if needed.
December 1, 2025
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