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A 21-year-old member asked:

What is fish scale disease, and why does it affect skin pigmentation?

2 doctor answers3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Karen Han
Dermatology 25 years experience
Ichthyosis: Ichthyosis (fish scale disease) is an inherited condition characterized by dry scaly skin as a result in defective skin barrier function. The most common subtype is ichthyosis vulgaris, which is pigmentless.The rare subtype, epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, is characterized by retained thickened scales in skin folds, giving the appearance of "dirty skin" even though no pigment is actually deposited.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Barbara A Majeroni
Specializes in Family Medicine
Icthyosis vulgaris: A disorder characterized by the development of dry, rectangular scales. This is a disorder of keritinization, which affects the color and texture of the skin.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jan 5, 2019
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