Lamellar Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disorder characterized by dry, thick, and scale-like skin. It results from a mutation in the gene NIPAL4 or the TGM1 genes which are responsible for normal skin formation. Symptoms include thick, platelike scales covering the entire body surface. The scales are plate-like, dry, and dark in color. They cover the entire body but are more pronounced on the lower legs. Other symptoms may include skin that cracks easily, eye problems, hearing loss, and dental issues. Lamellar ichthyosis is usually diagnosed at birth based on the appearance of skin. Treatment mainly focuses on keeping the skin moisturized and avoiding infections.
The Global Lamellar Ichthyosis Market is estimated to be valued at USD 5.30 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 7.21 Billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.46% from 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Lamellar Ichthyosis are AjinomotoBio-Pharma, CELGENE CORPORATION, Bausch Health Companies Inc.
Rising prevalence of genetic skin diseases and growing government support for rare disease treatment are fueling the Lamellar Ichthyosis Market growth. According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), Lamellar ichthyosis affects 1 in every 300,000 newborns.
Technological advancements in genomics and development of gene therapy for skin disorders provide potential opportunities for treatment of lamellar ichthyosis. Multiple companies are conducting clinical trials to develop gene therapy targeting TGM1 and NIPAL4 genes causing lamellar ichthyosis.
Market Trends
Increasing research on molecular pathways and novel drug targets
Researchers are working on understanding the genetic basis and molecular pathways involved in lamellar ichthyosis to identify novel drug targets. Several academic institutes and pharma companies are conducting preclinical research on TGM1 deficiency and NIPAL4 gene mutations to develop targeted therapies.
Rise in orphan drug approvals and designations
Regulatory agencies provide incentives like market exclusivity to encourage drug development for rare diseases. In recent years, FDA has approved several orphan drugs for rare genetic skin disorders. This trend is expected to continue over the forecast period.
Market Opportunities
Development of gene therapy
Gene therapy is considered a promising approach to permanently correct the gene mutations causing lamellar ichthyosis. Several clinical trials are testing gene replacement therapies targeting TGM1 and NIPAL4 genes.
Focus on treatments alleviating symptoms
While gene therapies are being researched, pharmaceutical companies can focus on developing topical drugs, emollients and moisturizers to effectively manage symptoms like scaling and itching associated with lamellar ichthyosis.
Impact of COVID-19 on Lamellar Ichthyosis Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the growth of lamellar ichthyosis market. During the initial lockdown periods in 2020, access to dermatology clinics reduced drastically which adversely affected the diagnosis and treatment of lamellar ichthyosis. This led to a decline in demand for pharmaceutical therapies and prescription drugs for managing the symptoms of this rare skin disorder. However, with the availability of telemedicine and online consultations, some patients continued their treatment regimen remotely under medical supervision which supported the market to an extent.
As restrictions are being lifted now, dermatology practices have resumed but with continued precautions. While patient visits have increased from last year, the treatment seeking behavior is still subdued due to lingering fear of virus transmission. The economic strain caused by the pandemic has also lowered healthcare spending power of many individuals. This has posed challenges for market players in terms of revenue generation. To tide over the difficult period, companies have focused on improving access to therapies through online platforms, financial assistance programs and home delivery services. They have also prioritized vaccine development for staff to generate confidence among patients and clinicians. With pace of vaccination drives accelerating globally, the lamellar ichthyosis market is expected to get a foothold and gradually pick up momentum through 2022. However, the overall market growth in the forecast period (2021-2026) is projected to be lesser than the pre-COVID estimates due to lasting financial impacts.
In terms of geographical analysis, North America holds the major share in lamellar ichthyosis market currently owing to high diagnosis and treatment rates. This is attributed to well-established healthcare infrastructure, universal insurance coverage and large specialty clinics with experienced dermatologists. Asia Pacific is considered the fastest growing region due to increasing medical accessibility, rising incidence of genetic diseases diagnosis and growing medical tourism. Furthermore, new treatments are being explored more rapidly in western nations currently and countries in Asia are expected to gain from collaborations and know-how transfer in coming years.
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Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)