You are in Medical Library . Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors Ichthyosis is one of the most common of the inherited skin disorders. It may begin in early childhood, before a child is 4 years old. In most cases one parent and one-half of the children will be affected. It usually disappears during adulthood, but may recur when elderly.
Ichthyosis involves development of dry, scaly skin .
It is usually most severe over the legs but may also involve the arms, hands, and trunk in some cases. It is usually associated with many fine lines over the palm of the hand. The condition is often more noticeable in the winter. The diagnosis is made primarily on the basis of the skin appearance. The health care provider may need to rule out other possible causes of dry, scaly skin .