Introduction: Congenital ichthyosis is a group of rare genodermatoses with varied manifestations requiring a need for better understanding of pathophysiology for future therapeutics. There is role of pro-inflammatory cytokines in pathogenesis and hence use of specific IL-inhibitors in therapy of ichthyosis may have a role in upcoming treatment strategies. There is a paucity of data on the role of cytokines in pathophysiology of inherited ichthyosis.

Objectives: To compare the levels of cytokine profile (IL-17, IL-22 and TNF-α) in patients with inherited ichthyosis as compared to age and sex matched healthy controls. To study alteration in cytokine levels (IL-17, IL-22 and TNF-α) in different clinical types of ichthyoses. To study the correlation between cytokine levels with severity of ichthyosis measured by IASI score.

Materials and methods: This was a hospital based cross-sectional study with 30 clinically diagnosed cases of inherited ichthyosis (2-18 years) and 30 age and sex- matched controls. 3-4 ml of blood samples drawn from patients and from controls for estimation of cytokines levels (TNF-alpha, IL-17 and IL-22) by ELISA. Detailed evaluation was done including determination of ichthyosis area severity index (IASI).

Results: Values of IL-17 and IL-22 had significant difference between cases and controls. There was even a significant difference between values of IL-17 and IL-22 among different groups of ichthyoses. IASI positively correlated with the values of TNF-α and IL-22.

Conclusion: IL-17, IL-22 and TNF-α play a role in pathophysiology of ichthyosis and their levels increase with the severity of the disease. IL-22 can be a potential molecule for targeted therapy in the treatment for Sjögren-larsson syndrome. However targeted therapy by IL-17/IL-22/TNF-alpha inhibitors in ichthyosis requires larger study and multicentric trials. 

Dr. Ayushman Bindal is an early-career dermatologist with a strong academic foundation and a growing focus on aesthetic and pediatric dermatology. He completed his postgraduate training at Kalawati Hospital, one of India’s leading pediatric institutions, where he developed a keen interest in managing complex dermatological conditions in children.

Coming from a modest background, Dr. Bindal’s journey has been shaped by discipline and determination. Securing All India ranks and training at top institutions has been a significant confidence boost, reinforcing his belief that talent and persistence can overcome limited resources. His long-term vision is to make quality dermatological care more accessible to smaller towns across Central India.

He has multiple publications in pediatric dermatology and has delivered oral presentations at international conferences in Rome, Colombo, and Delhi. Clinically, he is deeply interested in aesthetic dermatology, particularly injectables such as fillers and Botox, along with laser-based treatments, and is actively working toward mastering these skills to build a high-impact, future-ready practice.

Dr. Bindal is equally passionate about patient education and is building a digital presence to simplify skincare, debunk myths, and guide both patients and young doctors in a practical, relatable manner.