| Inheritance | X-linked recessive |
|
Occurrence
|
rare |
| Description | A skin disorder that causes the epidermal cells to accumulate and form scales; some people who have it may only have dry skin; others may have severe scaling. In the past it has been called the fish skin disease. |
| Treatment | labor intensive-- the treatment is mostly bathing, scrubbing, lotions and emolients to remove and soften the dead skin cells |
Background:
All of us lose skin cells every day. Individuals with Ichthyosis cannot lose their skin cells as fast as they are reproducing; this causes the skin cells to build upand form thickened scales. Skin protects us from disease, injury, and tissue damage. It is the largest organ in our body. Most of us take our skin for granted until there is a problem. Sunburns, rashes, cuts, and many other minor traumas remind us how important our skin is for protection. This activity is primarily an introduction to the skin. It could be taught in conjunction with the activity under albinism (a skin cancer introduction).
Activity:
It might be useful to have students draw and diagram the various layers and parts of skin. Discuss with them all of the things our skin does to protect us. Ask them what problems of the skin they have heard about before. They may discuss a variety of skin disorders (eczema, rashes, sunburns, burns, even chicken pox). Tell them about Ichthyosis and how it affects the skin of individuals affected. Allow students to hypothesize what effects Ichthyosis might have on one's health and personal life. On one of the web pages listed below, a show 'n' tell picture book of individuals who have this disorder is being gathered. Teachers can help students find that page on the Internet and learn how Ichthyosis can affect skin and health.
For more information visit Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, Ichthyosis Information, or the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types
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