Meibomian gland dysfunction in a case of ichthyosis follicularis with alopecia and photophobia syndrome

Abstract

We are reporting an interesting case of ichthyosis follicularis with alopecia and photophobia syndrome in a daughter and father from the Indian subcontinent associated with Meibomian gland dysfunction. A three-year-old female child presented with pain, redness and severe photophobia in both eyes since one month. Cutaneous examination revealed ichthyosis, absence of hair all over the body including eyebrows, scalp and angular cheilosis. Ocular examination revealed bilateral severe meibomianitis, multiple superficial punctate keratitides in right eye and corneal epithelial defect in the left eye. Other systemic features were prominent high forehead and large ears. Her father had similar symptoms. Her symptoms improved after adequate treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction. She is asymptomatic at present.

Figure 1a

Female child with IFAP syndrome showing angular cheilosis

Figure 1b

Figure showing corneal epithelial defect in the left eye

Figure 1c

Severe Meibomian gland dysfunction

Figure 2a

Showing total absence of hair over the scalp and eyebrows

Figure 2b

Absence of hair in the limbs

Figure 3

Father with similar features