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Ichthyosis vulgaris - Symptom

Alternative Names

Common ichthyosis; Fish scale disease

Symptoms:

  • Dry skin, severe
  • Scaly skin ( scales)
  • Possible skin thickening
  • Mild itching of the skin

The dry, scaly skin is usually most severe over the legs but may also involve the arms, hands, and middle of the body. Persons with this condition may also have many fine lines over the palm of the hand.

Signs and tests:

Your doctor can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin. Tests may be needed to rule out other possible causes of dry, scaly skin.

Your doctor will ask you if you have a family history of similar skin dryness.

  • Reviewed last on: 5/13/2011
  • Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Genodermatoses and Congenital Anomalies. In: James WD, Berger TG, Elston DM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 27.

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