Erythrasma

Erythrasma affects mostly adults, especially those with diabetes; it is most common in the tropics. This is a superficial chronic infection caused by a bacteria called Corynebacterium minutissimus. It is most commonly seen in the groin, armpits and in the folds.

Erythrasma does not usually cause any symptoms. It presents as a slowly enlarging area of pink or brown dry skin. Extensive infection can be treated with oral erythromycin or tetracycline and usually responds promptly. Antibacterial soap can be used to prevent recurrence. Erythrasma can affect the skin between the toes to cause flaking. cracking and sogginess that resemble the appearance of athletes foot.

The condition clears up promptly when treated with appropriate anti-biotics by mouth. Antibacterial soaps may help to prevent ecurrence.

Erythrasma is commonly seen in adult people. It may also affect people suffering from diabetes. This disease is most common in the tropics. Erythrasma is usually seen in the areas where skin touches skin, such as under the breasts and in the armpits, webs of the toes, and genital area. It is seen particularly in men where the thigh touches the scrotum.

The erythrasma infection can produce irregularly shaped pink patches that may later turn into fine brown scales. In some people, the infection spreads to the torso and area. Although, erythrasma may be confused with a fungal infection, but doctor can easily diagnose erythrasma because skin infected with Corynebacterium glows coral red under and ultraviolet light.

Tetracycline is also known to eliminate the infection effectively. Topical applications of antibiotics are also helpful in certain cases. Topical drugs which are commonly used for the treatment of Erythrasma are like clindamycin and miconazole cream. They also work efficiently.