This cross-sectional survey study examined rates of atopic disorders (allergic rhinitis, food allergy, allergic asthma) in 115 patients (children aged 6–11 and adults) with physician-confirmed congenital ichthyosis, comparing results to 2021 National Health Interview Survey population data.
68.2% of congenital ichthyosis patients had at least one physician-diagnosed atopic disorder (64.3% of children, 72.5% of adults). Rates of all three atopic conditions were significantly higher than age-matched population controls, with the highest burden in erythrodermic subtypes (Netherton syndrome, ichthyosis with confetti, harlequin ichthyosis) and X-linked ichthyosis.
Self-reported ichthyosis subtype introduces misclassification risk; cross-sectional design prevents causal inference; and the comparison population (2021 NHIS) may not be fully matched on all confounders.
Routinely screen patients with any subtype of congenital ichthyosis for comorbid allergic disorders—not just those with Netherton syndrome. Atopic burden is high across subtypes, so early allergy referral may be warranted.
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