What could cause an itchy, bumpy rash that moves around the body along with tongue ulcers and swelling after a stem cell transplant?
The symptoms you're describing sound consistent with GVHD affecting both your skin and mouth. The itchy, moving rash that gets red and hot is a common feature of GVHD skin involvement. The Show Full Answer
What could cause an itchy, bumpy rash that moves around the body along with tongue ulcers and swelling after a stem cell transplant?
The symptoms you're describing sound consistent with GVHD affecting both your skin and mouth. The itchy, moving rash that gets red and hot is a common feature of GVHD skin involvement. The fact that it's been persistent for 6 months and causes bleeding from scratching suggests this needs medical attention.
Your tongue symptoms are particularly concerning. GVHD can cause:
- Painful ulcers on the tongue
- Swelling that makes talking difficult
- Increased sensitivity
These oral symptoms appear in 45-83% of people with chronic GVHD and are often among the first signs. It's really important to contact your transplant team or doctor right away about these symptoms, especially since:
- The rash is severe enough to bleed
- Your tongue swelling is affecting your ability to speak
- Symptoms have persisted for 6 months
Treatment typically starts with topical steroids for skin GVHD. For mouth symptoms, doctors may prescribe special mouth rinses, medications, or saliva substitutes to help with healing and pain relief.
Don't try to manage this alone - your medical team needs to evaluate whether this is GVHD flaring or something else requiring immediate treatment.
October 27