Evidence-Based Management of Preterm Infants With Congenital Ichthyosis: A Case Report

Background: The newborn period is a critical phase in the clinical management of patients with ichthyosis. However, there are no clinical guidelines for the care of ichthyosis in newborns. Awareness of ichthyosis among healthcare professionals remains limited, and nurses often assume care responsibilities without specialized training or adequate information support. Clinical Findings: The preterm female infant presented with generalized gelatinous skin changes accompanied by fissures and bilateral ectropion. Significant clinical findings also included skin breakdown in the major folds (neck, axilla, popliteal fossa, and groin), along with systemic issues such as metabolic acidosis, hyperlactatemia, and the presence of elevated infection indicators. Primary Diagnosis: The primary diagnosis was low birth weight, prematurity, congenital ichthyosis, metabolic acidosis, hyperlactatemia, neonatal pathologic jaundice, and newborn thrush. Interventions: The available evidence was rapidly reviewed to guide individualized management, including skin care and emollient therapy, infection surveillance and prevention, fluid and nutritional management based on intake and output, and multidisciplinary psychosocial support. Outcomes: After 13 days of treatment and nursing care, the infant was discharged in improved condition. Practice Recommendations: This case may provide practical evidence to inform the care of similar newborns with congenital ichthyosis and improve clinical outcomes.