Definition:
Ichthyosis vulgaris is a skin condition characterized by dry and scaly skin. It is the most common form of a general skin condition known as ichthyosis as it affects 1 in 250 people. This is why it is also sometimes called common ichthyosis.
Treatment:
Treatment of ichthyosis vulgaris include the use of various topical treatments such as lotions and creams to exfoliate the scales.
Climate plays a big factor in management of ichtyosis vulgaris. Those who suffer from this condition are advised to reside in an area with a tropical climate that could facilitate sweating which in turn would help in clearing up the scales.
Symptoms and Signs:
This condition is also sometimes referred to as fish skin due to its appearance. The symptoms usually manifest at around four years old and often improve as the patient grows older. Symptoms may, however, manifest again in old age. The acquired version of the disease usually manifest symptoms during adulthood.
Ichthyosis vulgaris is not deadly. The only problem with this condition is the itching and the social impact of having a skin disease. Symptoms may include having mosaic lines, scaly patches and white scales in different parts of the body.
Some cases of ichthyosis vulgaris present severe symptoms such as build up of scales in a wide area of the body.
Causes:
Ichthyosis vulgaris is an inherited disease. There is also an acquired but rare version of this condition called acquired ichthyosis vulgaris.
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