Ichthyosis is a heterogeneous family of at least 28 [1], generalized, mostly genetic skin disorders. All types of ichthyosis have dry, thickened, scaly or flaky skin [1]. In many types the skin is said to resemble the scales on a fish, which is why the word ichthyosis comes from the Ancient Greek ιχθύς (ichthys), meaning "fish" [2]. The severity of symptoms can vary enormously, from the mildest types such as ichthyosis vulgaris which may be mistaken for normal dry skin up to life-threatening conditions such as harlequin type ichthyosis. The most common type of ichthyosis is ichthyosis vulgaris accounting for >95% of cases[3].
Symptoms
editDry, thickened, scaly skin. Overheating caused by inability to sweat is common.
Prevelance
editIchthyosis vulgaris is by far the most common type, affecting around 1 in 250 people. X-Linked ichthyosis affects around 1 in 6,000. All other types are rare diseases which occur in less than 1 in 100,000 births.
Diagnosis
editTreatments
editBecause ichthyosis is caused by a genetic disorder, the only real hope of a cure lies with gene therapy. Treatments for ichthyosis generally attempt to improve the appearance of the skin and minimise discomfort caused by dry, thickened or tight skin. This is done by exfoliating and increasing the moisture of the skin.
For milder types of ichthyosis the only treatment necessary may be emollients such as normal moisturising creams and lotions, petroleum jelly and bath oils.
The more severe types often use exfoliating creams to reduce scaling. These contain keratolytics like lactic acid, urea, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and alpha- and poly-hydroxy acids. Long baths (possibly including salt) are also useful to exfoliate the skin.
For severe types of ichthyosis, oral retinoids may be prescribed. These are chemicals derived from vitamin A which help to regulate skin cell growth, however they can have very serious side effects.
http://www.bad.org.uk/site/830/default.aspx
http://www.bad.org.uk/public/leaflets/ichthyosis.asp
http://www.ichthyosis.com/Hints.htm
- Moisturisers
- Baths
- Exfoliating products
- Eyedrops
- Antiseptics and antibiotics
- Cooling aids: water sprays and cooling vests
- Retinoids
References
edit- ^ a b FAQ, Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types (F.I.R.S.T)
- ^ Ichthyosis, John Hopkins Health Information Library
- ^ Okulicz JF, Schwartz RA (2003). "Hereditary and acquired ichthyosis vulgaris". International Journal of Dermatology. 42 (2): 95–8. PMID 12708996.
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