Topical N-acetylcysteine in ichthyosis: Experience in 18 patients.

The treatment options for ichthyosis are limited. Successful treatment with topical N-acetylcysteine has been reported in a small number of patients, with generally good results. We report the finding of a retrospective chart review of 18 patients treated with N-acetylcysteine. Although topical N-acetylcysteine is an effective therapy for some patients with ichthyosis, problems with irritation, objectionable odor, and compounding costs limit its use.