Desquamation is different from ichthyotic changes

Leprosy Mailing List,
May 22nd, 2009
Ref.: Desquamation is different from ichthyotic changes
From: Manimozhi N., Bangalore, India

Respected and dear Dr. Jerajani,

I refer to your LML message dated April 30th, 2009. Thank you very much for adding on information through our discussions and exchanging views and enriching ourselves. While I completely agree with you regarding the mild side effects of clofazimine causing itching sensation (also causes burning sensation eyes due to its effect on tear secretion).

However while lepra reactions (Type1/Reversal reaction) are subsiding the scaly dry skin surface is generally referred to as desquamation quite different from ichthyotic changes which have a different patho-physiological reason altogether with reference to leprosy. This was what we were taught and we continued to teach. I request you to kindly clarify my confusion.

With best wishes and kindest regards,

Dr. N. Manimozhi
Medical Coordination-AIFO Bangalore