Erythrasma
Erythrasma
Erythrasma (pronounced: eh-rith-raz-muh) is a type of skin infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium minutissimum. It is characterized by irregularly shaped pink patches that darken and scale over time.
Etymology
The term "erythrasma" is derived from the Greek word "erythros", meaning "red", and "asma", meaning "disease". It was first used in the medical literature in the late 19th century.
Symptoms
Erythrasma typically presents as well-demarcated, brown-red macular patches, often with a fine scale. The patches are usually asymptomatic, but may sometimes be itchy or mildly sore. The most commonly affected areas are the armpits, groin, and skin folds.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of erythrasma is typically made based on the characteristic appearance of the skin lesions. A Wood's lamp examination, which causes the bacteria to fluoresce a coral-red color, can help confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed for definitive diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for erythrasma usually involves the use of topical or oral antibiotics, such as erythromycin or clarithromycin. Good hygiene practices and keeping the skin dry can also help prevent recurrence of the infection.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Erythrasma
- Wikipedia's article - Erythrasma
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