What is typically affected in ichthyosis?

Ichthyosis is a skin disorder primarily characterized by abnormal keratinization. This condition leads to the accumulation of thick, dry, and scaly patches of skin due to a defect in the skin's ability to shed dead skin cells effectively. The key issue in ichthyosis is related to the production and turnover of keratin, the protein that makes up the outer layer of the skin.

In individuals with ichthyosis, the normal process of skin cell renewal is disrupted, causing cells to clump together instead of being sloughed off. As a result, the skin can become very dry and thickened, leading to the characteristic scaly appearance.

Other systems, such as nerves, sweat glands, and blood vessels, may not be primarily affected in ichthyosis. While certain types of ichthyosis can have secondary conditions that might affect sweat glands or other aspects of skin function, the central issue remains the abnormal keratinization. Understanding this focus on keratinization is key in recognizing and managing ichthyosis in clinical practice.