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Erythrasma

Erythrasma is a superficial bacterial skin infection, usually in warm, moist skin folds such as the groin, armpits and between the toes. The patch is often reddish-brown, clearly defined and finely scaly. It resembles a fungal infection but needs different treatment; examination with a Wood's lamp may reveal a coral-red glow.

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  • Erythrasma is a superficial bacterial infection of the outermost layer of skin, the stratum corneum. It is usually caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum, a bacterium that grows better in warm, moist conditions.
  • The condition mainly affects skin folds: the groin, armpits, under the breasts, the crease between the buttocks and between the toes. A patch is usually reddish-brown, clearly defined and finely scaly.
  • Erythrasma can look very similar to athlete's foot, a fungal groin infection, eczema, psoriasis or ordinary skin-fold irritation. A correct diagnosis is therefore important before you keep applying creams.
  • During examination with a Wood's lamp, the patch may glow coral-red. This is caused by porphyrins produced by the bacteria, rather than the colour of the skin itself.
  • Treatment usually works well, but recurrence is possible if moisture, friction, heavy sweating or a medical risk factor persists.

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Further reading

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I
IntertrigoIntertrigo causes red, irritated patches where skin touches skin and stays warm or moist. Keeping the area dry and aired helps, but a fungal or bacterial infection may need treatment.
A
Athlete's footAthlete's foot is a superficial dermatophyte infection, usually between the toes or on the sole and edges of the foot. Scaling, cracks and itching often respond to a topical antifungal and keeping the skin dry, but eczema and bacterial infections can look similar. A warm foot with rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever or a wound in someone with diabetes needs prompt assessment.
F
Fungal skin infectionA fungal skin infection is a superficial infection affecting the skin, hair or sometimes skin folds. Symptoms vary by location: round scaly patches on the body, cracks between the toes, an itchy groin or other patches with red, scaly edges. Treatment depends on the site and severity. Do not use only a corticosteroid cream on a suspected fungal patch without advice, because this can hide and worsen the infection.