Pre diagnosis help - GP refusing to refer me to dermatology

I've been having intense itching for approx. 3 months. It has also included a rash for approx. 2 months. The rash is everywhere but my face and ranges from purple pin *** under the skin to a 'nettle' looking rash. I am absolutely exhausted the past couple of weeks and now I've had lymph nodes swell up in my neck. 3 visits to the GP have resulted in antibiotics (folicilitus), allergies (steroid cream) and most recently, hives (moisturiser). The gp confirmed that the swelling was my lymph nodes. I asked about lymphoma as it had come up in the search results on good old Google and he said "it's not impossible but as it's unlikely I'm not looking into it". When I asked "why" he just kept repeating it was unlikely and couldn't substantiate his response. I have coeliac which I've read significantly increases my chance of lymphoma and I'm 35. I asked him to refer me to a dermatologist despite his opinion but he point blank refused. I cannot cope with the itching anymore and the rash looks horrendous. I'm covered in blood and bruises from scratching. Can anyone tell me what I should do next and whether you think I should persevere im case it is lymphoma or just accept the GP's word? Thank you in advance of any support. 

  • Hello Lawra87 and a warm welcome to Cancer Chat, 

    Poor you, this intense itching sounds really uncomfortable. Try not to do too much online searching as this will only bring up the most unlikely scenarios and will only make you worry more. I can understand why you would want to be seen by a dermatologist at this stage and I am sorry to hear that you were refused the referral. I think it might be a good idea to try and get a second opinion on this and see if you can talk to another GP about what your options are. Don't hesitate to ask questions about what is worrying you especially since you feel that your GP didn't really give you satisfactory answers. 

    You can read more about getting a second opinion on this page. 

    I hope you manage to speak to someone about this soon and that you get the reassurance you need. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi Lawra87

    Did you ever get to the bottom of your symptoms?  I've had intense full body itch for 11 weeks now. Been on steroid tablets, steroid creams, antibiotics, antihistamines, lotions, oils & creams & nothing is working. One doctor said to try the steroids & if they didn't work I would be referred to dermatology. I have since been back to the doctor 4 times & they won't refer me. Even though they don't know what's wrong with me. 

    I also have night sweats, chills, fatigue, had flu symptoms for a month now that I can't seem to shift. I also had a chest & sinus infection. I'm now left with a chest cough.