Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disease that causes dry, scaly skin. There are several types, with ichthyosis vulgaris being the most common. Diagnosis is usually based on appearance, and treatment involves noninvasive methods such as creams and ointments. There is no cure for the disease.
Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disease. It is characterized by dry skin that bunches and flakes. The skin can sometimes look like scales, hence the name; ichthys means “fish” in ancient Greek. There are several types of genetic ichthyosis, and each presents slightly differently. These types are ichthyosis vulgaris, lamellar ichthyosis, epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, X-linked ichthyosis, and congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma.
Ichthyosis vulgaris accounts for 95% of cases, making it the most common form. It is usually found on the trunk and legs and appears during puberty. Epidermolytic hyperkeratosis is seen as red, clammy skin at birth. Lemellar ichthyosis is an extremely rare version where babies are born with a mucous membrane on the skin and the entire body is leaky. X-linked ichthyosis is found on the trunk and extremities and is present at birth. Congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma is the mildest form of the disease and is present at birth with little scaling in adulthood.
There is a form of ichthyosis that doesn’t appear to be genetic. It is called acquired ichthyosis or acquired ichthyosis. This ailment is usually a sign of another disease such as Hodgkin’s disease, leprosy, typhoid fever, or other malignancies. In rare cases, it has been linked to certain medications.
Ichthyosis is usually diagnosed by its appearance. Doctors can usually recognize its symptoms without a large amount of testing. In some cases, a sample of the skin may be taken and tested to confirm their suspicions. Usually, a look at family history along with the appearance of scales is a good indicator of the disease.
The disorder is usually treated noninvasively with ointments and creams. There is no cure for the disease, so the goal is to reduce the appearance of scales and relieve any discomfort it may cause. Creams usually contain alpha hydroxy acids that moisturize the skin. Occasionally, retinoids may be prescribed. These creams are derived from vitamin A and can slow down skin regeneration. Since the ailment is a buildup of skin, slowing regeneration can help calm the process in extreme cases.
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