The study showed that in patients with a specific type of liver disease called primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), patients are left with a surplus of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and phosphorylated lipid, or fat circulating in the bloodstream.

The scientists then demonstrated that when injected into the skin, LPC evokes a debilitating itch.

It should be noted that in fatty liver disease, itching does not generate a rash or lesions on the surface of the skin.

Chronic itching, however, can lead to the development of visible irritation, redness or infections of the epidermis.

READ MORE: ‘Tiny red lines’ on the skin could signal fatty liver disease