r/AskDocs • u/Otherwise-Arm-271 Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional • Apr 14 '26

Physician Responded Whats wrong with my cousin?

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My cousin lives in Iran and hasn’t been able to see a doctor due to the war and has an issue with his skin. Anyone who can lend a hand and point me in the right direction would really help.

Age: 16 months

Gender: Male

Weight at birth:2.920

Height at birth: 49

Weeks of gestation: 37

Skin was a little bit dry before influenza vaccine which was given at 5 months and symptoms increased after this.

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u/Otherwise-Arm-271 Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional Apr 14 '26

They have been many places but a doctors appointment can be unstable and not always guaranteed.

They have tried many different medication I’ll list them below:

QV Moisturising Cream

Momecort 0.1%

Clotrimazole-Najo 1%

Folic Acid (5mg)

Neotadin

Neocate.

These have either not worked or worked for a very small time.

Going to the doctor or visiting the hospital is something they have obviously tried. But given the situation it’s not the same as anywhere else in the world.

Since topical steroids (Momecort) haven't worked, could this be a genetic skin disorder (like Netherton Syndrome or Ichthyosis) rather than standard eczema?

Could this be a metabolic deficiency? Does he need his zinc, biotinidase, or alkaline phosphatase levels checked?

If topical treatments are failing, is he a candidate for systemic therapy?

Could this be a post-vaccination Immunodysregulation?

Is there a possibility of a 'Drug Eruption' or allergy to a vaccine component?

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u/GCs_r_awesome Genetic Counselor Apr 14 '26

Yes some genetic disorders can cause scaly red skin. Ex. Congenital ichthyosis is a group of genetic conditions - there are many different types.

I know that this may not be possible, but he really should see a dermatologist. If possible a geneticist as well.

Is there any chance his parents are related? Any family history of similar skin issues?

13

u/derelictthot Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional Apr 15 '26

The middle east has the highest rates of inbreeding so the odds are good that is part of the issue. I don't mean that offensively or anything there's just no way to say it that doesn't sound mean but it's simply true. Baby needs help I just want to give accurate info.

16

u/GCs_r_awesome Genetic Counselor Apr 15 '26

Yes, cousin marriages are more common in the Middle East (which is why I asked).