Ichthyosis of steroid sulphatase deficiency. Clinical study of 76 cases

A detailed clinical study of 76 males with steroid sulphatase deficiency confirmed the ichthyosis of this disorder to be identical with the classical descriptions of recessive X-linked ichthyosis. The appearance of regular ichthyotic scaling seems in most instances to be heralded by a general peeling of the skin. This characteristic feature was registered between age 1 and 3 weeks in 19 of 21 young boys followed due to a placental steroid sulphatase deficiency. Later on, polygonal scales giving a 'dirty' appearance were most pronounced on the distal parts of the body and extensor aspects of the extremities. The ichthyosis aggravates through childhood into adult age.