Secondary ichthyosis: report of 2 cases

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatric Nutrition
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Ichthyosis is a group of skin disorders characterized by dry, scaling skin.
• Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a significant health issue, particularly in developing regions.
• Secondary ichthyosis, acquired ichthyosis, can arise due to various underlying conditions.

Observation:

• This report details two adolescent female cases of severe secondary ichthyosis.
• Both patients presented with profound protein-energy malnutrition.
• One patient's ichthyosis was primarily attributed to advanced malnutrition.

Findings:

• The second patient developed reversible ichthyosis secondary to severe malnutrition and concurrent pulmonary tuberculosis.
• Acquired ichthyosis of this severity, with malnutrition as the primary driver, is not previously documented in English medical literature.
• This suggests a strong link between severe nutritional deficiencies and significant dermatological manifestations.

Implications:

• Highlights the critical role of nutrition in maintaining skin integrity, even in adolescents.
• Underscores the need for comprehensive nutritional assessment in patients presenting with severe dermatological conditions.
• Suggests that early nutritional intervention and management of associated diseases can lead to reversal of acquired ichthyosis.