What causes snake skin disease (psoriasis)?
Disease description:
Recently, my skin has started peeling, and after an examination, I was told it's ichthyosis. I would like to know what causes ichthyosis.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Ichthyosis, also known as fish scale disease, has various causes, mainly including the following:
1. Genetic factors: The primary cause is gene mutations that lead to abnormal differentiation and shedding of skin cells, resulting in excessive accumulation of the stratum corneum on the skin surface, forming scaly patches resembling fish scales. This abnormal accumulation of keratin not only affects the skin's appearance but can also cause symptoms such as dryness and itching.
2. Hormonal changes: Excessive secretion of androgens in the body may inhibit the maturation of epidermal cells, shortening their growth cycle and thereby affecting skin health.
3. Immune system abnormalities: When the body's immunity is weakened, it cannot effectively resist external stimuli, potentially leading to inflammatory reactions in the skin, which may further develop into ichthyosis.
4. Environmental factors: Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as prolonged exposure to excessively humid or dry environments, may also accelerate water loss from the skin, triggering ichthyosis.
Treatment mainly involves moisturizing, softening the keratin layer, and promoting normal keratin metabolism to relieve symptoms. In severe cases, retinoid medications or other specific treatments may be required.
