Author's details
- Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
- MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
- Resident doctor in family medicine in Northern Sweden.
Reviewer's details
- Dr Gboyega Olarinoye
- MBBS, FMCP.
- Dermatologist at FMC Keffi Nassarawa State. Nigeria
Erythrasma
Background
Erythrasma in darker-skinned individuals often appears as well-defined, reddish-brown or slightly darker patches with fine scaling, usually affecting areas with skin folds such as the armpits, groin, or between the toes. The condition is caused by a bacterial infection from Corynebacterium minutissimum, and while it may be less noticeable on darker skin, it can still cause discomfort and itching. Treatment typically involves topical antibiotics like clindamycin or erythromycin, and maintaining good hygiene to reduce moisture and bacterial buildup in affected areas.
References
- Martínez-Ortega JI, Franco González S. Erythrasma: Pathogenesis and Diagnostic Challenges. Cureus. 2024 Aug 31;16(8):e68308. doi: 10.7759/cureus.68308. PMID: 39350848; PMCID: PMC11441456.
- Forouzan P, Cohen PR. Erythrasma Revisited: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnoses, and Comprehensive Review of Treatment. Cureus. 2020 Sep 30;12(9):e10733. doi: 10.7759/cureus.10733. PMID: 33145138; PMCID: PMC7599055.
- CDC, Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Erythrasma . Available at: https://phil.cdc.gov/Details.aspx?pid=12639. Accessed -02-14, 2024.
- Erythrasma – Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention | HealthMD
- Bacterial skin infections. Corynebacteria | DermNet (dermnetnz.org)
