X-linked ichthyosis with seizures, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder: a case report with an uncommon clinical...

X-linked ichthyosis (XLI) is a genetic condition characterized by scaly skin due to steroid sulfatase (STS) deficiency, often associated with additional neurodevelopmental issues.

A 10-year-old male child was admitted to the dermatology department. The child had been born prematurely at 26 weeks' gestation with a low birth weight of 1.6 kg. He presented with seizures characterized by abnormal upper-limb movements and was diagnosed with congenital ichthyosis. The child exhibited delayed language and motor development, learning difficulties, microcephaly, and dry, scaly skin, which he habitually peeled and ingested. Genetic analysis (single-nucleotide polymorphism and combined comparative genomic hybridization) revealed a 1.65 Mb deletion on chromosome Xp22.31 affecting the STS gene and other adjacent genes. The patient had low STS enzyme activity (3.5 nmol/hour/protein) in adipose tissue. Neuroimaging showed no structural abnormalities, though an electroencephalogram indicated mild slowing.

Given the established association between STS deletions and neurodevelopmental as well as psychiatric comorbidities, early recognition of emerging psychiatric features is essential. Given the established association between STS deletions and neurodevelopmental as well as psychiatric comorbidities, early recognition of emerging psychiatric manifestations is essential. Management should follow evidence-based recommendations for first-episode or early psychotic symptoms, emphasizing careful assessment, individualized pharmacological treatment when indicated, and multidisciplinary psychosocial support. Such an approach may improve clinical stabilization while avoiding premature diagnostic labeling.

This case highlights the importance of early genetic diagnosis and personalized treatment approaches, integrating dermatological, neurological, and psychiatric care to optimize outcomes in XLI.