What is Ichthyosis Vulgaris?

The term ichthyosis refers to the severity in dry skin that begins in patients in infancy. Ichthyosis can also be inherited genetically. While the chances of development of the condition in later life cannot be evaded, this basically happens due to genetic mutation. In this condition the skin is dry like fish scale; it’s rough in texture and extremely thickened. There are about twenty kinds of ichthyosis. The body under normal mechanism develops new skin and cells with the shedding of old skin and cells. But the normal functioning of the cell gets disrupted due to the condition. In this either many cells are generated or else the older cells do not fall properly. This leads to development of thick flakes which sticks to the body and looks like scales of fish.

The different kind of ichthyosis is different with respect to the gene which further results in different flaking pattern. The flaking of the skin is over the major skin surface and not in the joints or groin area. Most of the genetic types could be seen at the time of birth or with development of childhood.  Along with the flaking and thickening of the skin mild itching is also observed. The place is haven for bacteria and fungus to breed and thus the condition may worsen if proper treatment is not taken. People, who have the condition of ichthyosis vulgaris, also have respiratory and allergic condition.

The inherited condition is due to mutation of genes which gets carried from generation. This mutated gene disrupts the normal growth, development and shedding of skin. The chances of autosomal inheritance are dominant. The condition though appears in childhood may disappear with the adulthood. But there are more chances that the condition may develop in the alter stages of life.

The treatment is with lotions, steroid creams or ointments. This is prescribed to sooth the inflammation and itching spots. Dry scales could be removed with salicylic acid, urea or lactic acid. The cracks must be treated immediately.