Ichthyosis

What is it?

Points To Remember About Ichthyosis

• Ichthyosis causes dry, thickened skin that may look like fish scales.
• The disease is usually passed down from your parents.
• Ichthyosis is treated by dermatologists who are doctors trained to diagnose and treat diseases of the skin, hair, and nails.
• Creams, lotions, or ointments can relieve dryness or itching. Salt or aspirin dissolved in water, or over-the-counter lotions containing urea, may also ease scaling.
• For more severe cases, doctors may prescribe certain forms of vitamin A.

Ichthyosis is a disorder that causes dry, thickened skin that may look like fish scales.

The disease is usually passed down from your parents. Symptoms usually start showing up at about one year of age. The disease affects you throughout life.