Erythrokeratodermia progressive symmetrica ichthyosis
Overview
Erythrokeratodermia progressive symmetrica ichthyosis: A rare condition characterized by symmetrical red scaly skin patches
Symptoms
The list of signs and symptoms mentioned in various sources for Erythrokeratodermia progressive symmetrica ichthyosis includes the 2 symptoms listed below: * Hard red skin plaques * Clear edge around skin plaques
Diagnosis
Begin the history by asking how long the patient has had scaly skin and whether he has had it before. Where did it first appear? Did a lesion or skin eruption, such as erythema, precede it? Has the patient used a new or different topical skin product recently? How often does he bathe? Has he had recent joint pain, illness, or malaise? Ask the patient about work exposure to chemicals, use of prescribed drugs, and a family history of skin disorders. Find out what kinds of soap, cosmetics, skin lotion, and hair preparations he uses. Next, examine the entire skin surface. Is it dry, oily, moist, or greasy? Observe the general pattern of skin lesions, and record their location. Note their color, shape, and size. Are they thick or fine? Do they itch? Does the patient have other lesions besides scaly skin? Examine the mucous membranes of his mouth, lips, and nose, and inspect his ears, hair, and nails.
Treatment
Teach the patient proper skin care, and suggest lubricating baths and emollients. Instruct him not to use hot water to bathe or shower. If scaling results from corticosteroid therapy, wean the patient off the drug. (See Managing the patient with psoriasis, page 567.) ▪ Prepare the patient for such diagnostic tests as a Wood's light examination, skin scraping, and skin biopsy. ▪ Administer lotions and creams, as prescribed. * Skin Health Specialists (Dermatology): o Dermatology (Skin Health Specialists) o Dermatopathology o Pediatric Dermatology (Child Skin Health) o Dermatological Immunology / Diagnostic Laboratory