Ichthyosis

Ichthyosis, or FISH-SKIN DISEASE, is characterised by a hardened, thickened, rough, and almost horny state of the cuticle in severe cases. Instead of exfoliating in fine, almost invisible flakes, it accumulates in irregular scale-like pieces, which may be removed, but are speedily reproduced. Perspiration is always absent or very deficient in the affected areas. The disease may affect almost the whole surface, or may be confined to a single part; and is most frequently, but not always, congenital. It is attended by no constitutional disturbance, and the general health is often very good. The disease is, however, extremely obstinate, and when congenital may be considered as incurable. Treatment consists in the frequent use of warm or vapour or alkaline baths, so as to soften the thickened epidermis and to facilitate its removal, and friction by means of a piece of flannel or pumice-stone may be conjoined with the bath. The application of sulphur or resorcin to the skin has also the effect of promoting desquamation. The employment of sulphureous baths, such as those at Harrogate, has occasionally been found of temporary use; and the internal administration of tar, cod-liver oil, &c. sometimes gives relief.