Ichthyosis and Ocular Manifestations

Ichthyosis is a group of inherited skin disorders characterised by skin thickness and dry scale formation. There are many forms of Ichthyosis which range in appearance, severity and mode of inheritance. Ichthyosis can also present with ocular manifestations which are primarily due to abnormalities in the eyelid and tear film. This can lead to development of exposure keratopathy. In more severe forms of Ichthyosis, such as harlequin ichthyosis, the skin around the eyelids can become tight and inflexible leading to cicatricial ectropion.