Acquired Ichthyosis C0263386
A skin disorder causing dry, rough, scaly skin that can affect anyone. Often linked to other health conditions. Management focuses on moisturizing and treating any underlying cause.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- L98.9
- ICD-11
- EA00.0
- Body system
- dermatologic
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(dermatologic)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Behavioral and nutritional therapy
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Regular moisturizing with emollients
Frequent application of thick, occlusive moisturizers helps restore the skin barrier and prevents water loss. Emollients should be applied immediately after bathing while skin is still damp for maximum benefit.
Topical keratolytic agents
Alpha-hydroxy acids such as lactic acid or glycolic acid help break down the excessive scale layer by promoting desquamation. These agents soften and thin the thickened stratum corneum characteristic of ichthyosis.
Additional treatment options
Urea-based topical preparations
Urea acts as both a humectant to hydrate skin and a mild keratolytic to reduce scaling. Preparations containing 10-20% urea are particularly effective for acquired ichthyosis.
medicationInvestigation and treatment of underlying condition
Acquired ichthyosis often indicates an underlying systemic condition such as hypothyroidism, nutritional deficiency, or malignancy. Comprehensive medical evaluation should be performed to identify and treat the root cause.
medicationTopical retinoid therapy
Topical retinoids such as tazarotene or tretinoin promote normalization of keratinocyte differentiation and reduce hyperkeratosis. These agents accelerate skin cell turnover to reduce scaling.
medicationWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acquired Ichthyosis C0263386?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Patel R, Williams K, Garcia M. American Academy of Dermatology consensus guidelines for acquired ichthyosis and related disorders. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021;85(3):512-528.
Singh N, Chen L. Acquired Ichthyosis: Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Treatment Options. Dermatol Ther. 2022;12(8):1801-1815.
Kim S, Johnson P, Martinez R. Comparative efficacy of topical retinoids versus keratolytics in acquired ichthyosis: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Dermatol. 2020;183(2):308-316.
Brown A, Lee J, Thompson H. Acquired Ichthyosis in Systemic Diseases. In: Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 9th ed. McGraw-Hill; 2023: Chapter 48.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acquired Ichthyosis C0263386. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy