Ichthyosis vulgaris is a common inherited skin disorder causing dry, scaly skin.

Ichthyosis vulgaris is one of the most common of the inherited skin disorders. It may begin in early childhood, before a child is 4 years old. In most cases one parent is affected, and each child has a 50-50 chance of being affected. The condition usually disappears during adulthood, but may recur in old age.

Ichthyosis involves development of dry, scaly skin. It is usually most severe over the legs but may also involve the arms, hands, and trunk. Affected persons may also show many fine lines over the palm of the hand. The condition is often more noticeable in the winter. It may be linked with atopic dermatitis, keratosis pilaris (small bumps on the back of the arms), or other skin disorders.

• Skin lesion /rash
  • Dry skin, severe
  • Scaly appearance, adherent scales
  • May thicken
• Itching of the skin, mild

The diagnosis is made mostly on the basis of the skin appearance. The health care provider may need to rule out other possible causes of dry, scaly skin. A family history of similar skin dryness is often obtained.

Heavy duty moisturizing of the affected areas may reduce symptoms. Creams and ointments are more effective than lotions. They are best applied to moist skin immediately after bathing. The use of mild, non-drying soaps is encouraged. Use of moisturizing creams that contain keratolytic agents (chemicals that help skin to shed normally), such as lactic acid, salicylic acid, and urea, are often very helpful in this condition.

Ichthyosis may be annoying but seldom affects medical health. It usually improves during adulthood but may recur when a person becomes elderly.

Secondary bacterial skin infection may develop if scratching causes openings in the skin.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if ichthyosis symptoms persist despite treatment, if symptoms worsen, lesions spread, or if new symptoms develop.

If you have this condition, be aware that your children are at risk for developing it.