12-Year-Old Girl Battles Rare Disease That Hardens Skin Like Stone

A 12-year-old girl from Dantewada district in Chhattisgarh is battling a rare genetic skin disorder that has gradually hardened her skin, leaving her body rigid and stone-like.
The girl, Rajeshwari, began showing symptoms of the condition at the age of four. Initially, scaly patches appeared on her skin, which later thickened and hardened like tree bark before becoming increasingly rigid.
The condition first affected her hands and eventually spread to almost her entire body.
As the disease progressed, Rajeshwari’s mobility and social interaction were severely affected. Family members said she has been unable to meet people freely and has been slipping into depression due to her condition.
Despite being taken to several hospitals over the years, the family said there has been no significant improvement.
Doctors later diagnosed her with Ichthyosis hystrix, an extremely rare genetic skin disorder that affects only a handful of people worldwide.
Medical experts have clarified that the disease is not contagious and currently has no permanent cure. However, regular application of moisturisers and continuous medical care can help reduce dryness and slow the progression of symptoms.
The family has appealed for medical support and assistance, hoping for improved treatment options to help the child lead a better quality of life