Netherton Syndrome – Responding to Oral Retinoids
May 2025
in “
International Journal of Trichology
”
Studysummary This case report highlights a 7-year-old boy with suspected Netherton syndrome who presented with itchy lesions, hair abnormalities, and elevated immunoglobulin E levels. The authors report complete resolution of symptoms with oral Acitretin after failed methotrexate treatment. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
Netherton syndrome (NS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by ichthyosis linearis circumflexa, hair shaft abnormalities, and atopic diathesis. This case study discusses a 7-year-old boy with NS, presenting with itchy lesions and hair abnormalities, who showed complete resolution after 2 months of treatment with oral Acitretin. The study highlights the importance of considering NS in atopic children with similar symptoms. Diagnosis is supported by clinical features and can be confirmed through genetic testing for SPINK5 mutations. Treatment typically involves topical emollients, corticosteroids, and systemic options like retinoids.
