Ichthyosis follicularis atrichia photophobia syndrome

Ichthyosis follicularis atrichia photophobia syndrome also known as ichthyosis follicularis, alopecia, and photophobia syndrome (IFAP) is one form of ichthyosis, an extremely rare genetic syndrome in which dead skin cells accumulate in thick, dry scales on your skin's surface, absence of hair (atrichia) and excessive sensitivity to light (photophobia). Additional features include short stature, intellectual disability, seizures and a tendency for respiratory infections. There were only 10 known cases (all male) in 1998. Prevalence is unknown. Approximately 40 cases have been reported to date.

Exposure to sunlight may improve or worsen the condition. In some cases, excess dead skin sheds much better from wet tanned skin after bathing or a swim, although the dry skin might be preferable to the damaging effects of sun exposure. There is no cure for ichthyosis. The main goal of treatment is to moisturize and exfoliate. This helps prevent dryness, scaling, cracking and build-up of skin.