Health Encyclopedia

Lamellar ichthyosis

Definition

Lamellar ichthyosis is a rare skin condition that affects newborns.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Lamellar ichthyosis is passed down through families (inherited).

Symptoms

The baby's skin appears scaly, and layers of skin fall off (are shed).

Treatment

Moisturizers containing urea and ammonium lactate may help. Also, retinoid medications such as tazarotene may be used on the skin (topically).

Review Date:10/11/2008
Reviewed By: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.

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