Skin color changes usually happen because there is some type of change in the body. For example, a person may look yellow because of liver problems, blue because of breathing problems, bruised because of blood disorders, or red because of skin problems. Changes in the skin can be due to tumor growth, sun exposure, or side effects of chemo or radiation therapy. Some color changes may improve over time, while others may be permanent.

What to look for

• Yellowish color to skin and/or whites of eyes
• Deep orange to brown urine
• White or clay-colored (light brown or gray-looking) stools
• Bruises or areas of blue or purple skin that have no known cause
• Difficulty breathing (if present, see section on shortness of breath)
• Redness or rash on skin
• Swelling in an area that is discolored
• Itching (see section on itching)

What the patient can do

• Clean the area gently with warm water, gentle soap, and a soft cloth.
• Rinse the area carefully and pat dry.
• Apply water-repellent salve, such as petroleum jelly or A & D ointment^®.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing of soft fabrics, such as cotton.
• Expose affected skin to air whenever possible.
• Protect affected area from heat and cold.
• Keep skin protected from the sun (for instance, wear a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirts when outside).
• Apply sunscreen (SPF 15 and higher) to any skin exposed to sun.
• Apply medicine prescribed for skin reactions.

What caregivers can do

• Notice any new medicines, soaps or detergents, or new foods that may have caused rashes.
• If patient's hands are affected, do not let the patient do tasks involving hot water.
• Offer gentle massages with moisturizing lotions or creams.

Call the doctor if the patient:

• has urine that remains dark or orange for 1 day or more
• has stool that looks white or clay-colored for 2 or more bowel movements
• develops a yellowish color on skin or in whites of the eyes
• has severe itching (see section on itching)
• has bruises do not go away within a week, or new bruises continue to appear for 3 days
• has red or rash-like areas on skin

Go to a list of symptoms to find other problems in Caring for the Patient with Cancer at Home: A Guide for Patients and Families.

Revised: 04/07/08