What is Ichthyosis?

Description of the disease:

Ichthyosis is a group of inherited skin disorders characterized by abnormal keratinization of the skin, resulting in rough, scaly, and shedding skin.

Classification:

Ichthyosis is divided into several types, including inherited and acquired. Inherited ichthyosis can be autosomal recessive, autosomal dominant, or X-linked.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of ichthyosis include dry and flaky skin, the appearance of scales, frequent dry patches, and itching.

Causes:

The cause of ichthyosis is a disruption of genes responsible for producing proteins necessary for the normal state of the skin.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of ichthyosis involves a clinical examination, study of the patient's medical history, skin biopsy, and genetic tests.

Treatment:

Treatment of ichthyosis aims to moisturize the skin, soften rough areas, and prevent the formation of scales. Creams, ointments, gels, and in some cases, systemic medications are used.

Prevention:

Genetic counseling before pregnancy planning, searching for prematurely feeding mutations, and measures to reduce the risk of familial occurrence of the disease.

Doctor:

Ichthyosis is managed by a dermatologist.