From the moment he was born, Pan Xianhang’s skin has been thick, dry, hardened, and covered in scales that give him an appearance reminiscent of a fish. Known locally as the “Fish Boy” in Wenling, Zhejiang province in eastern China, the young boy was diagnosed at birth with a severe form of ichthyosis, a rare genetic skin disorder named after the ancient Greek word for fish (ichthys).

In 2013, when news of his condition spread widely, Pan was eight years old. His entire body was covered in thick, itchy scales. The severe abnormalities affected the shape of his eyelids, nose, mouth, and ears, and restricted the movement of his arms and legs. Because his skin does not function normally, he struggles to regulate body temperature and often overheats. He endures constant pain and intense itching that makes restful sleep nearly impossible. Simple daily activities—playing with other children, attending school, or even resting comfortably—become major challenges.

Ichthyosis is a group of genetic disorders characterized by dry, thickened, scaly skin. While milder forms may affect only parts of the body, Pan’s case is particularly severe. Experts estimate that more than 16,000 babies are born each year with some form of ichthyosis, though severity varies widely. There is no cure. Management focuses on keeping the skin moisturized with thick creams, emollients, and oils to reduce cracking and the risk of infection, along with measures such as cool water to ease overheating and fever. Secondary infections remain a serious concern if the cracked skin is not carefully cared for.

Despite the physical hardships and the social stigma of being nicknamed “Fish Boy,” Pan’s greatest wish has been straightforward and deeply human: to study, to enjoy a normal childhood like other children, and to live without the constant burden of pain and itching. His mother has publicly expressed her hope that doctors could find better ways to relieve his symptoms so he could attend school free from unbearable discomfort. In 2013, medical teams visited his family and provided treatment support, and the case drew national attention and donations.

Pan Xianhang’s story highlights the profound daily struggles faced by people living with rare genetic conditions. It also illustrates the resilience and simple aspirations that persist even in the face of extraordinary physical challenges—the desire for education, play, rest, and an ordinary life.

Sources

• Korea Times / Imagine China reports on Pan Xianhang (2013)
• New York Daily News, “Chinese ‘Fish Boy’ covered head to toe with itchy scales” (2013)
• HuffPost, “Pan Xianhang Suffers From Itchy Scale Skin Disease Ichthyosis” (2013)
• Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types (FIRST) information on ichthyosis prevalence and characteristics
• Additional contemporary reports from The Sun, El Periodico, and Science World Report (2013)