FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Jean Pickford PHONE: 215.631.1411

Physicians to attend Continuing Medical Education Course on Ichthyosis

Lansdale, PA, (April 17, 2000) - The Section of Pediatric Dermatology at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, in conjunction with the Department of Dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, announce its first annual Continuing Medical Education (CME) conference on July 7, 2000 at the Stokes Auditorium at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The CME conference will provide up-to-date information on ichthyosis, comprehensive information on its current understanding of the genetics and pathophysiology, practical approaches to the diagnosis, management and treatment of ichthyosis. In attendance will be general practioners, dermatologists and pediatricians from the tri-state area.

Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disease characterized by dry, thickened and scaly skin. Dermatologists estimate that there are at least twenty varieties of ichthyosis with a wide range of severity and associated symptoms. Approximately 16,000 babies are born each year with some form of ichthyosis.

F.I.R.S.T. is a national voluntary organization dedicated to helping families with the genetic skin diseases collectively called the ichthyoses. F.I.R.S.T. provides support, information, education and advocacy for individuals and families affected by ichthyosis. F.I.R.S.T. supports research into causes, treatment and a cure for ichthyosis. For more information about ichthyosis or a related skin type, contact the national office at 215.631.1411 or www.scalyskin.org.