Erythrasma

The Structure of the Skin
Source: PubMed

Erythrasma

Erythrasma is a chronic bacterial infection of the surface of the skin caused by a species of bacteria called C. minutissimum. It usually appear as a well-defined red to brown patches that may itch. It is more common in adults than in children.

Predisposing Factors

Erythrasma is more common to appear in areas of humidity and high temperature. Hotness and humidity is the most suitable climate for C. minutissimum infections to develop. Also, obesity may make erythrasma more liable. Obese people have deep skin folds which are always moist. General health problems such as diabetes mellitus weaken self immunity and hence facilitate infection.

Symptoms

The symptoms of erythrasma include the development of chronic red to brown or brown scaly patches over the skin surface. These patches are sometimes itchy. Erythrasma affects mainly adults.

Erythrasma is usually tend to appear in the areas of the skin folds such as the armpits, under the breast in women, the groins, the cleft of buttocks and between toes.

Treatment

The treatment of erythrasma is similar to this of other skin bacterial infections. It depends mainly on application of topical anti-biotics such as sodium fusidate (Fucidine) over the infected area. Systemic anti-biotics such as erythromycin (Erythrocin) or tetracycline (Panmycin) are also recommended. The treatment of erythrasma should continue for at least ten to fourteen days.

Erythrasma is a chronic infection so, it tends to recur. Further attacks of erythrasma can be prevented by keeping washing your body regularly using anti-bacterial soaps.