Erythrasma overview
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Erythrasma Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Erythrasma overview On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Erythrasma overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Erythrasma is a skin disease that can result in pink patches, which can turn into brown scales.
Cuases
It is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium minutissimum.
Risk Factors
Erythrasma is more common in warm climates. You are more likely to develop this condition if you are overweight or have diabetes.
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Complete recovery is expected following treatment.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
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.
Other Diagnostic Studies
Wood's lamp is useful in diagnosing erythrasma. Use of a Wood's lamp causes the organism to fluoresce a coral red color, differentiating it from fungal infections and other skin conditions.
Treatment
Medical Therapy
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. Some studies have shown resolution with the use of Zithromax (azithromycin).
Primary Prevention
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