A review of harlequin ichthyosis.

[harlequin ichthyosis]

Harlequin ichthyosis is an extremely rare and historically lethal congenital disorder of the skin caused by abnormal keratinization . This article reviews the embryology and currently understood pathophysiology of the disease , as well as current methods used to diagnose and treat these infants . There are serious implications for the family to consider : the high risk that their newborn will die soon , as well as future family planning issues .