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Ichthyosis

A group of skin diseases of genetic or acquired origin, presenting with severe dryness and fish-scale-like scaling of the skin.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ichthyosis?

Ichthyosis is a heterogeneous group of skin diseases in which the skin takes on a dry, scaly, and fish-scale-like appearance as a result of keratinization disorder. Most forms are hereditary and may sometimes occur in syndromic forms accompanied by systemic diseases.

The most common form, ichthyosis vulgaris (filaggrin gene mutation), has a frequency of 1/250-1/1000 in the population and shows a strong association with atopic dermatitis. X-linked recessive ichthyosis, lamellar ichthyosis, and congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma are rarer and more severe forms.

Acquired ichthyosis may appear in older age in association with lymphoma, HIV, some medications, and metabolic diseases. The mainstay of treatment is intensive moisturizing to repair the skin barrier.

Symptoms

Severely dry and scaly appearance of the skin all over
Prominent scaling, usually on extensor surfaces
Thickened skin on knees and elbows
Increased lines on the soles and palms (hyperlinearity)
Association with atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis
Worsening in winter months, improvement in summer
Heat regulation disorder and sweating problems in severe forms

Risk Factors

Family history of ichthyosis (autosomal dominant or X-linked)
Filaggrin gene mutations (ichthyosis vulgaris)
Atopic background
Dry climate and winter months
Lymphoma, HIV, malnutrition (acquired forms)
Rare syndromes (Netherton, Refsum, Sjögren-Larsson)
Some medications (nicotinic acid, clofazimine)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Generalized widespread dryness and scaling in infancy/childhood
  • Severe dryness unresponsive to intensive moisturizing
  • Recurrent skin infections
  • Newly developing widespread dryness in adulthood (investigation of underlying disease)
  • Cracked, painful, and open-wounded skin areas

Treatment Methods

01
Intensive moisturizers (containing urea, lactic acid, glycerol)
02
Keratolytics (salicylic acid, urea 10-20%)
03
Warm and short baths, emollient bath oils
04
Topical and systemic retinoids in severe forms
05
Antibiotic therapy for secondary infections
06
Multidisciplinary support and genetic counseling

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.