Ichthyosis

Alternative names:

common ichthyosis; fish scale disease; ichthyosis vulgaris

Treatment:

Intensive localized moisturizing may reduce symptoms. Creams and ointments are more effective than lotions. They are best applied to wet 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.

Expectations (prognosis):

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

Complications:

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

Calling your health care provider:

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.