Ichthyosis
What causesichthyosis
Most people with ichthyosis have inherited a particular faulty gene from their parent. The signs and symptoms of inherited ichthyosis appear at birth or within the first year of life.
The faulty gene affects the rate at which the skin regenerates either the shedding of old skin cells is too slow, or the skin cells reproduce at a much faster rate than they can shed old skin. Either way, this causes a build-up of rough, scaly skin.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about ichthyosis, a condition that causes widespread and persistent thick, dry, "fish-scale" skin.
What causesichthyosis
Most people with ichthyosis have inherited a particular faulty gene from their parent. The signs and symptoms of inherited ichthyosis appear at birth or within the first year of life. The faulty gene
Ichthyosis vulgaris
Ichthyosis vulgaris is the most common type of inheritedichthyosis, affecting1 in 250-1,000 people. Signs and symptomsinclude: skin may appear normal at birth skin gradually becomes dry, rough and
Other types of inherited ichthyosis
Other inherited forms ofichthyosis are very rare and include: X-linked ichthyosis only affects males and includes general scaling, particularly over the limbs and trunk (torso) congenital ichthyo
Acquired ichthyosis
Acquired ichthyosis tends to develop in adulthood and isn't inherited. It's usually associated with another condition, such as: an underactive thyroid kidney disease sarcoidosis a rare condition
Treating ichthyosis
There's no cure for ichthyosis, butmoisturising and exfoliating the skin daily can help prevent dryness, scaling and the build-up of skin cells. Skincare Your skin specialist (dermatologist) will be
Outlook
People with mild ichthyosis have a normal lifespan. However,the most severe inherited types can be life threatening. If you have inherited ichthyosis, you'll have it for life. Acquired ichthyosis may
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