Erythrasma (patient information)

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Overview
Erythrasma is a long-term bacterial infection that usually appears in the area between overlapping skin (skin folds).

What are the symptoms of Erythrasma?
The main symptoms are reddish-brown slightly scaly patches with sharp borders. The patches occur in moist areas such as the groin, armpit, and skin folds. They may itch slightly and often look like patches associated with other fungal infections, such as ringworm.

What causes Erythrasma?
Erythrasma is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium minutissimum.

Who is at highest risk?
Erythrasma is more common in warm climates. You are more likely to develop this condition if you are overweight or have diabetes.

Diagnosis

 * Culture of scrapings from the skin patch
 * Wood's lamp examination

When to seek urgent medical care?
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of erythrasma develop.

Treatment options
Gently scrubbing the skin patches with antibacterial soap may help them go away. Prescription erythromycin gel applied to the skin also works very well. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe erythromycin pills.

Where to find medical care for Erythrasma?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Erythrasma

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Complete recovery is expected following treatment.

Prevention of Erythrasma
These measures may reduce the risk of erythrasma:


 * Maintaining good hygiene
 * Keeping the skin dry
 * Wearing clean, absorbent clothing
 * Avoiding excessive heat or moisture
 * Maintaining healthy body weight