HARLEQUIN FETUS
HARLEQUIN FETUS ICD-10: Q80.4
• Harlequin fetus is an extremely rare condition in which the child is born with very thick plates of stratum corneum separated by deep cracks and fissures (Fig. 4-13).
• Eclabium, ectropion, and absence of or rudimentary ears result in a grotesque appearance.
• These babies usually die shortly after birth, but there are reports of survival for weeks to several months.
• This condition is different from collodion baby and the other forms of ichthyosis, with an unusual fibrous protein within the epidermis.
FIGURE 4-13 • Harlequin fetus Stratum corneum consists of thick plates separated by deep cracks. (Reproduced with permission from Benjamin Solky, MD.)