Why does ichthyosis cause whole-body itching?

The causes of generalized pruritus in patients with ichthyosis are multifactorial. The skin of patients with ichthyosis is typically dry, with a thin epidermal layer and insufficient stratum corneum hydration. This dry condition can easily lead to itching. Hyperkeratosis is also an important factor causing pruritus. The stratum corneum thickens, becomes rough and dry, and is accompanied by scale formation. This keratinization process causes tightness of the skin, thereby inducing itching. Inflammatory reactions and nerve sensitivity may also contribute to pruritus. The skin may develop symptoms such as erythema and papules due to inflammatory responses, accompanied by itching. Nerve sensitivity may further increase patient discomfort. Environmental irritants, metabolic secretions, sweat excretion, and other factors may also irritate the skin and consequently cause itching.