Overview
Ichthyosis results from an abnormality in the cornification (production of the outer dead layer) of the skin. Many different forms of ichthyosis are recognized. Notice the dry skin and scaly appearance. Ichthyosis is usually worse in the winter and is more severe over the legs.
Review Date 10/24/2016
Updated by: David L. Swanson, MD, Vice Chair of Medical Dermatology, Associate Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Medical School, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.