General Information:Ichthyosis comes from the word ichthy which is Greek and means "fish." This is in reference to the scaly, fish-like skin exhibited by these people. What happens is that the skin is always dry and is replaced quickly. Normally, the old skin just falls off, but for people with ichthyosis, the skin stays around in thick, scaly patches. For some people, this only happens around certain areas of the body, while for others, it is more severe.
Chromosomal cause: One type of ichthyosis is X-linked, so only males will get this type. This type usually has a pattern of ichthyosis of the scalp and upper body. Rarely, this happens to females as well. Other types of ichthyosis have been linked to recessive conditions, although it's not sure exactly which chromosome is effected.
Characteristics: Thick, peeling skin is a common symptom of ichthyosis. IF these scab-like pieces of skin are removed, it may result in bleeding and possible infection. Extra work has to be taken to treat the dry skin. This is not life threatening and is more annoying than dangerous.
Ichthyosis
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