3. Harlequin ichthyosis
This skin condition is actually a very rare genetic disorder that affects newborn infants. Harlequin ichthyosis translates to hard and thick skin that results in diamond-shaped scales across the body of newborns.
These diamond-shaped plates can destroy the shape of a newborn’s ears, mouth, nose, and eyelids. And that’s not all: they can limit the movement of the chest and limbs.
In the entire world, there are 200 cases of harlequin ichthyosis reported. A mutation actually causes this cruel disorder. The ABCA12 gene mutation limits the natural ability of the body to transport lipids to the skin.
Due to these diamond-shaped plates, the body cannot regulate body temperature, control water loss, or fight infections.
In general, parents don’t have any symptoms, so genetic testing is the only way to assure that your babies will not have to deal with such a severe disorder.
