
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions β written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Trichomycosis axillaris
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Trichomycosis axillaris is a superficial bacterial colonization of the hair shafts in sweat glandβbearing areas, such as the armpits and the pubic area. It is a trivial disease of worldwide occurrence that is believed to be caused by the genus Corynebacteria (mostly Corynebacterium tenuis).
Presentation
Presentation
It is characterised by yellow, black or red granular nodules or concretions that stick to the hair shaft. Usually the condition is symptomless and all that is noticed are sweaty, smelly armpits.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Skin
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
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Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]
Treatment
Treatment
Daily cleansing with soap and water and application of benzoyl peroxide generally cures the infection. Regular use of antiperspirants aids in prevention. Topical erythromycin is occasionally required to eliminate the infection.
References
References
- O’Dell ML (1998). “Skin and wound infections: an overview”. Am Fam Physician. 57 (10): 2424β32. PMID 9614412. Full text
External links
External links
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]}; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kiran Singh, M.D. [2]

![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/2/25/Trichomycosis_axillaris01.jpg)
![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/e/eb/Trichomycosis_axillaris02.jpg)
![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/e/e5/Trichomycosis_axillaris03.jpg)
![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/3/39/Trichomycosis_axillaris05.jpg)
![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/2/2a/Trichomycosis_axillaris06.jpg)
![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/0/0c/Trichomycosis_axillaris07.jpg)
![Trichomycosis axillaris. Adapted from Dermatology Atlas.[1]](https://www.wikidoc.org/images/f/f0/Trichomycosis_axillaris08.jpg)