Ichthyosis
Pronunciation: ik-thee-OH-sis
A heterogeneous group of inherited or acquired skin disorders characterised by generalised scaling resembling fish scales, resulting from abnormal keratinisation or epidermal shedding.
Full Definition
Ichthyosis encompasses numerous subtypes — most notably ichthyosis vulgaris, X-linked ichthyosis, and lamellar ichthyosis — each defined by distinct genetic mutations affecting the cornification process. The term derives from the Greek 'ichthys' (fish), referencing the characteristic scale pattern. In editorial work, the plural 'ichthyoses' is correct when referring to the group of conditions. Editors must ensure subtype names are rendered consistently, as capitalisation conventions vary: eponymous types (e.g., Harlequin ichthyosis) capitalise only the proper noun. The condition appears frequently in genodermatosis literature, drug safety reports, and patient registries.
Usage
Usage note: Plural is 'ichthyoses', not 'ichthyosises'. Capitalise eponymous subtype names only at the proper-noun element.
In Context
- "The patient's ichthyosis vulgaris was managed with twice-daily emollient application." — Dermatology clinic letter
- "The author used 'ichthyosises' as the plural; the editor corrected this to 'ichthyoses'." — Journal manuscript copyedit