Ichthyosis simplex is a genetic skin disorder characterized by dry, scaly skin. The word "ichthyosis" is from Greek "ichthys" meaning "fish," and "osis" meaning "condition of." The word "simplex" refers to the fact that this type of ichthyosis is a milder form, compared to other types. IPA phonetic transcription for "ichthyosis" is /ˌɪkθiˈoʊsɪs/ and for "simplex" is /ˈsɪmplɛks/. Knowing the IPA phonetic transcription makes it easier to understand and spell this word correctly.
Ichthyosis simplex is a hereditary skin disorder characterized by the presence of dry, scaly, and rough skin. It is a form of ichthyosis, a group of genetic conditions that affect the skin's ability to regenerate properly. The term "ichthyosis" is derived from the Greek word "ichthys," meaning fish, due to the fish-like appearance of the affected skin.
In the case of ichthyosis simplex, the symptoms are usually present at birth or develop early in childhood. The skin appears thickened and flaky, resembling fish scales. It most commonly affects large areas of the body, particularly the limbs, abdomen, and back. The severity of the condition can range from mild, with only slight dryness and scaling, to more severe, with widespread thickening and shedding of skin.
Ichthyosis simplex is caused by a mutation in a gene that regulates the production of a protein called filaggrin. Filaggrin is essential for maintaining the skin's barrier function, hydration, and flexibility. When there is a deficiency or alteration in this protein, the skin becomes dry and fails to shed properly, leading to the accumulation of scales.
Although there is currently no cure for ichthyosis simplex, it can be managed through proper skincare routines. Regular use of moisturizers, bathing in lukewarm water, and exfoliating the skin can help alleviate some of the symptoms. Additionally, avoiding irritants and harsh chemicals can prevent further damage to the already fragile skin barrier.
Overall, ichthyosis simplex is a genetic disorder characterized by dry, scaly, and rough skin due to a mutation in the filaggrin gene, affecting the skin's ability to regenerate and maintain proper hydration.
Ordinary i., xeroderma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ichthyosis" is derived from the Greek word "ichthys", meaning "fish", and the suffix "-osis", denoting a medical condition. "Ichthyosis" refers to a group of genetic skin disorders characterized by dry, scaly, and thickened skin, resembling fish scales.
The term "simplex" in "ichthyosis simplex" comes from the Latin word "simplex", which means "simple" or "uncomplicated". In this context, "simplex" implies that the condition is not associated with any other underlying systemic diseases or abnormalities, making it the most common and mildest form of ichthyosis.