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Ichthyosis vulgaris

Definition:

Ichthyosis vulgaris is a common skin disorder passed down through families that leads to dry, scaly skin.

Alternative Names:

Common ichthyosis; Fish scale disease

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Ichthyosis vulgaris is one of the most common of the inherited skin disorders. It may begin in early childhood, before age 4. In most cases one parent is affected -- and each child has a 50-50 chance of developing the condition.

The condition is often more noticeable in the winter. It may occur along with atopic dermatitis , keratosis pilaris (small bumps on the back of the arms), or other skin disorders.

Skin layers

Skin layers

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