Erythrasma (patient information)

Erythrasma is a long-term bacterial infection that usually appears in the area between overlapping skin (skin folds), such as the groin and armpit.

The main symptoms of Erythrasma include the following:

• Reddish-brown slightly scaly patches with sharp borders
• Itching
• Pain if irritated
• Skin shedding
• Blisters
• Foul odor
• Thickening and yellowing of toenails

Erythrasma is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium minutissimum.

Individuals with the following characteristics are at highest risk to develop Erythrasma:

• Being overweight or obese
• Having diabetes
• Sweat profusely and excessively
• Living in humid, tropical climates
• Those who are suffering from other illnesses
• Military personnel

Erythrasma is usually diagnosed by the following tests, used to locate and identify the bacterial cause Corynebacterium minutissimum

• Cultural swab
• Wood’s lamp examination
• Gram staining

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of erythrasma develop; erythrasma will not usually resolve without proper treatment.

Your doctor may prescribe antibacterial lotions or pills, depending on the extent of the infection.

Directions to Hospitals Treating Erythrasma

Complete recovery is expected following treatment.

These measures may reduce the risk of erythrasma:

• Practicing good hygiene
• Keeping the skin dry and avoid excessive sweating
• Wearing clean clothing that wicks moisture
• Avoiding excessive heat or moisture
• Maintaining healthy body weight
• Avoiding illnesss
• Bathing or showering frequently

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001470.htm

Template:WikiDoc Sources