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Ichthyosis

FACTS:

• Ichthyosis is a rare genetic skin disease and is not contagious.  There is no cure for this condition, only treatments to help the symptoms.
  
•  Ichthyosis causes the skin to build up and scale, causing it to be extremely dry.
  
• The skin can be extremely dry and have patches of dark scales. Other symptoms include itchy skin, difficulty sweating, and thinning hair. Because of the tightness of the skin, it may be painful to move parts of the body.
  
• This condition can be present at birth or the symptoms can develop during the first four years of life.  Some people develop a milder version only in the winter.
  
• During periods of very dry skin and of the tightness of the skin, , it may be painful to move parts of the body. Good skin care is necessary.
  
• Splitting and cracking of the skin can lead to skin infections.
  
• Skin may build up over the eyes or ears leading to impaired eyesight and hearing. Care by a dematologist is neccessary to prevent complications of this condition.
  
• Ichthyosis can be worse in cold dry weather.

TREATMENT:

• The care of the child's skin should be directed by a dermatologist.
  
• Skin care is important. Moisturizers are used to keep the skin free of cracks and peeling that may lead to secondary infection.
  
•  Using  warm water for baths and showers is less drying on the skin as is the use of  mild, non-drying soaps.
  
• Antibiotics or antibiotic ointment may be needed if a skin infection develops.
  
• Some children with Ichthyosis may have a problem sweating.  Watch for overheating, flushing and lethargy.