A Variant of Ichthyosis

Abstract

To the Editor.— Krakowski et al suggest that acquired ichthysis should be considered a malignancy marker of Kaposi sarcoma ( Arch Dermatol 111:1213-1214, 1975). The case described below supports the above proposal and describes an interesting variant of ichthyosis. Report of a Case.— A 75-year-old man of Mediterranean ancestry was admitted in 1973 to the Lemuel Shattuck Hospital, Jamaica Plain, Boston. He related a lifetime history of dry skin, as well as the recent onset of painless swelling and increased scaling of the left leg. Examination of his skin revealed general dryness and scaling, with involvement of the palms and soles. The left lower extremity was markedly edematous and had multiple bluish-brown macules. There also were numerous nodules extending from the inguinal crease to the toes. The scales were much larger and thicker over the left lower extremity than elsewhere on the body (Figure). Histopathologic examination confirmed the clinical impression of