X-linked
recessive ichthyosis
This
less common type of ichthyosis is inherited as an X-linked recessive trait and
therefore, in its complete form, is seen only in males, although some female
carriers show mild scaling. The condition affects about 1 in 6000 males in the
UK and is associated with a deficiency of the enzyme steroid sulphatase, which
hydrolyses cholesterol sulphate. The responsible gene has been localized to the
terminal part of the X chro-mosome at Xp 22.3.
In
contrast to the delayed onset of the dominantly inherited ichthyosis vulgaris,
scaling appears early, often soon after birth, and always by the first
birth-day. The scales are larger and browner (Fig. 4.1), involve the neck, and
to a lesser extent the popliteal and antecubital areas, as well as the skin
generally. The palms and soles are normal. There is no association with atopy
or keratosis pilaris. The condition persists throughout life.
Corneal opacities may appear in adult life. Kallmann’s syndrome is caused by the deletion of a part of the X chromosome that includes the gene for X-linked recess-ive ichthyosis, which is therefore one of its features. Other features of this contiguous gene disorder are hypogonadism, anosmia and neurological defects.
This
is as for ichthyosis vulgaris. It is helpful to remember that only males are
affected. Bear Kallmann’s syndrome in mind if there are other congenital
abnormalities.
None
are usually needed. A few centres can measure steroid sulphatase in fibroblasts
cultured from a skin biopsy.
Oral
aromatic retinoids are probably best avoided.
Topical
measures are as for ichthyosis vulgaris.
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