Ichthyosis vulgaris is a genetic skin condition caused by a mutation in the filaggrin gene. It causes thick, dry scales to accumulate on the skin due to an inability to shed dead skin cells. It affects about 1 in 200 people and causes itchy, flaky skin that can crack and become infected. While there is no cure, treatment focuses on moisturizing the skin and using medications to slow skin cell production and relieve symptoms.

2. Ichthyosis vulgaris is a genetic skin condition in which
skin is unable to shed its dead skin cells. The presence of
dead skin cells on the skin results in the rapid
accumulation of skin causing thick and dry scales. The
excessive dryness of skin obstructs the normal functioning
of the skin to fight against infections and regulating body
temperature.
Severe patches usually appear on larger areas of the body
such as back, legs, arms, and abdomen. Ichthyosis vulgaris
is a rare skin disease and occurs in one out of 200 people.
However, Ichthyosis vulgaris is a non-contagious skin
condition, but often leads to emotional distress among
many patients. Ichthyosis vulgaris is also known as fish
scale disease.

3. The most possible cause of Ichthyosis vulgaris is
mutation in the genes. The mutation in inherited
genes affects the protein known as filaggrin,
resulting in Ichthyosis vulgaris. Ichthyosis vulgaris
skin condition follows an autosomal dominant
pattern, which means only one parent is the carrier of
the mutated gene. Sometimes Ichthyosis vulgaris may
develop along with other skin conditions such as
keratosis pilaris or dermatitis.

4. The symptoms of Ichthyosis vulgaris depend on the severity of
the condition. Most of the symptoms of Ichthyosis vulgaris are
visible at birth or appear during childhood. The symptoms
of Ichthyosis vulgaris may get worse in winter and dry climates.
 Itchy skin
 Thickened skin
 Flaky skin
 Severely dry skin
 White or brown scales
 Painful skin cracks
 Eczema

5. A dermatologist can diagnose Ichthyosis vulgaris
simply by looking at the bumps. Sometimes he a may
take a sample from the affected area by scratching the
affected skin. The sample is further observed under a
microscope to determine the possible cause and
condition of infection. A patient should tell
their dermatologist about their medical history and
symptoms they have been experiencing. A
dermatologist may also order a blood test to check for
other skin conditions that can cause similar
symptoms as of Ichthyosis vulgaris.

6. There is no permanent cure available for Ichthyosis vulgaris.
However, its treatment can help in managing painful symptoms.
The treatment of Ichthyosis vulgaris may include:
 Medicines containing lactic acid or alpha hydroxy acids can help
the skin to maintain moisture and prevent scaling.
 Apply moisturiser or cream containing urea to keep the skin
hydrated.
 Avoid going out in hot and humid temperature.
 Retinoids medicines to slow down the over production of skin
cells.
 Avoid scratching the affected area.
If Ichthyosis vulgaris is left untreated it will cause excessive
dryness of skin. Dry skin is vulnerable to severe skin infections
like atopic dermatitis.

7. People suffering from Ichthyosis vulgaris may
experience:
 In some patients, skin thickness and scales of
ichthyosis can interfere with sweating resulting
excess sweating and overheating.
 Skin splitting and cracking associated with
Ichthyosis vulgaris may lead to infections.

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