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Papers: 24 Sep 2022 - 30 Sep 2022

PAIN TYPE:
Itch


2022 Sep 27


J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol

Acquired ichthyosis, asteatotic dermatitis, or xerosis? An update on pathoetiology and drug-induced associations.

Authors

Park JS, Saeidian A, Youssefian L, Hsu S, Vahidnezhad H, Uitto J
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2022 Sep 27.
PMID: 36165597.

Abstract

Acquired ichthyosis (AI) is a relatively rare cutaneous entity characterized by transient, generalized scaling and pruritus in the absence of family history of ichthyosis or atopic disease. The hyperkeratosis in AI can range from the mild, white-to-brown scaling resembling that in ichthyosis vulgaris (IV) to the more prominent dark brown scaling phenotype, similar to that found in lamellar ichthyosis. The disease can wax and wane in relation to endogenous and/or exogenous factors. Histopathology of AI is similar to that found in IV. AI is usually of cosmetic concern to patients but can in some cases reflect the presence of more serious conditions, including malignancies, autoimmune diseases, or metabolic disorders. In some cases, AI can be an adverse effect of a medication or the cutaneous symptom of a toxic exposure. Other conditions, such as severe xerosis or eczema, can present with clinical findings similar to AI, making diagnosis a challenge. Furthermore, cases of AI are sporadic throughout the literature and have been documented across a wide variety of medical settings distinct from dermatology, which often contribute to misdiagnosis of this disease. Definitive management requires prompt identification and treatment of the inciting factors combined with conservative therapies, including topical emollients, keratolytics, retinoids, or corticosteroids, and in rare cases, with oral retinoids.