Ichthyosis is a chronic skin disorder marked by excess of dry scales on the skin surface. Classified under the keratinization disorder, this problem is because of large difference in epidermal metabolism. Ichthyosis can be categorized based on genetic position, findings and acquired form. Ichthyosis vulgaris, epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, ichthyosiform erythroderma, lamellar ichthyosis and X-linked ichthyosis are some of its types.
Causes and Symptoms :
Ichthyosis occurs in any part of the body and is characterized by the presence of dry scales or patches on the skin. As said earlier, the symptoms vary widely depending on the place at which Ichthyosis occurs in the body. It can be present in cornea, conjunctiva and even on the retina and eyelids.
Skin biopsy is done for identifying the extent of damage caused by skin infection. In some cases, electron microscopy test and routine histopathology is done for identifying the disease. In case of Lamellar ichthyosis, genetic analysis is done. For testing X linked ichthyosis, steroid sulfatase level is tested. For diagnosing child syndrome, radiography and molecular genetics study is done.
Ichthyosis on certain parts is indicative of leukemia and autoimmune disorders like HIV. For such patients, thyroid function test, CBC differential count and chest radiography is done for ruling out any other disorders.
Research indicates that low levels of serum estriol during pregnancy are a sign of STS deficiency and X linked Ichthyosis in baby. Prenatal diagnoses can be made to confirm lamellar ichthyosis by means of direct mutational analysis.
For treating systemic disorders, etretinate and isotretinoin are given. For increasing the level of retinoic acid and reducing scaling effects, doctors prescribe liarozole 150mg. For patients who suffer from epidermic hyperkeratosis strong antibiotics like benzathine penicillin, erythromycin ethyl succinates are given to kill bacterial infection.
For curing ocular disorders, ointments and non preserved tears like carboxymethyl cellulose are prescribed. Topical cyclosporine A is beneficial to treast dep stromal keratosis.
Pictures of Ichthyosis :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Ichthyosis
For treating constant corneal defect, amniotic transplantation is done on surgical method for easy healing. Skin grafting from the forearm and groin areas is adopted for repairing the abnormal scaling process.