Role of hydrogel-based systems in the management of lamellar ichthyosis: A comprehensive review

A rare autosomal recessive congenital skin condition called lamellar ichthyosis is typified by aberrant keratinization and compromised epidermal barrier function. Mutations in genes including TGM1, ABCA12, ALOX12B, ALOXE3, and NIPAL4, which are essential for protein cross-linking and lipid metabolism in the stratum corneum, are the main cause of the disorder. Clinically, affected people frequently have a collodion membrane at birth that eventually sheds, exposing the body's massive, black, plate-like scales. Ectropion, eclabium, hypohidrosis, and heightened vulnerability to infections as a result of weakened skin integrity are other characteristics. According to epidemiology, lamellar ichthyosis is an uncommon condition that affects both sexes equally and has a global prevalence of between 1 in 100,000 and 300,000 people. Genetic testing may be used to assist the diagnosis, which is mostly clinical. In extreme cases, emollients, humectants, keratolytic agents, and systemic retinoids are used to relieve symptoms. The potential use of hydrogels as a successful therapeutic strategy for treating this illness has been brought to light by recent developments. Because of their high water content and biocompatibility, hydrogels improve medication penetration into the stratum corneum, decrease scaling, and offer constant hydration. Treatment results are further enhanced by their capacity to provide sustained and regulated drug release. All things considered, lamellar ichthyosis necessitates lifelong care, and new treatments like hydrogel-based formulations offer encouraging opportunities to enhance patient care and quality of life.