Ichthyosis acquisita

Ichthyosis acquisita
Synonyms	Acquired ichthyosis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Dry skin, scaling, thickening of the skin
Complications	Infection, psychosocial impact
Onset	Adulthood
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Systemic disease, medications, malignancy
Risks	Hodgkin's lymphoma, HIV/AIDS, sarcoidosis, hypothyroidism, leprosy
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, skin biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Ichthyosis vulgaris, X-linked ichthyosis, lamellar ichthyosis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Moisturizers, keratolytics, retinoids
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Ichthyosis acquisita is a rare skin condition characterized by the development of dry, scaly skin. It is also known as acquired ichthyosis and is not inherited, unlike other forms of ichthyosis. This condition usually appears in adulthood and may be associated with various systemic diseases or conditions, such as cancer, thyroid disease, and HIV/AIDS.

Causes

The exact cause of ichthyosis acquisita is unknown. However, it is often associated with other diseases and conditions, including:

• Hodgkin's disease
• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
• Sarcoidosis
• Underactive thyroid
• HIV/AIDS
• Medications such as nicotinic acid and hydroxyurea

Symptoms

The main symptom of ichthyosis acquisita is dry, scaly skin. The scales are often large, dark, and may cover large areas of the body. Other symptoms may include:

• Itching
• Skin redness
• Skin thickening

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ichthyosis acquisita is based on the appearance of the skin and a detailed medical history. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment of ichthyosis acquisita focuses on relieving symptoms and treating the underlying condition, if any. Treatment options may include:

• Moisturizers and emollients
• Topical retinoids
• Oral retinoids
• Antihistamines to relieve itching

See also

• Ichthyosis
• Skin conditions
• Dermatology