General Information About Ichthyosis Vulgaris
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the accumulation and scaling of dead cells on the skin surface due to the slowing down of the shedding process of cells in the uppermost layer of the skin.
It occurs as a result of an inherited mutation in the gene encoding the protein called filaggrin, which forms the skin's moisture barrier.
Extreme skin dryness, thin white/gray scaling, and thickening of the skin, especially on the lower parts of the legs and arms. The face and inside of the joints are generally not affected.
Since it is a purely genetic condition, it is absolutely not contagious. It is not transmitted from person to person through contact.
There is no genetic cure that completely eliminates the disease. Keeping the skin constantly moisturized is the foundation of treatment.
Special moisturizers and keratolytic creams containing urea, salicylic acid, or lactic acid soften the skin by allowing the dead skin to peel off.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
