Erythrasma
Erythrasma is a long-term skin infection caused by bacteria. It commonly occurs in skin folds.
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Exams and Tests
The health care provider will check your skin and ask about the symptoms.
These tests can help diagnose erythrasma:
- Lab tests of scrapings from the skin patch
- Examination under a special lamp called a Wood lamp
- A skin biopsy
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Treatment
Your provider may suggest the following:
- Gentle scrubbing of the skin patches with antibacterial soap
- Antibiotic medicine applied to the skin
- Antibiotics taken by mouth
- Laser treatment
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Outlook (Prognosis)
The condition should go away after treatment.
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When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of erythrasma.
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Prevention
You may be able to reduce the risk of erythrasma if you:
- Bathe or shower often
- Keep your skin dry
- Wear clean clothes that absorb moisture
- Avoid very hot or damp conditions
- Maintain a healthy body weight
References
Barkham MC, Khong B. Erythrasma. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Coulson IH, Murrell DF, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Limited; 2022:chap 77.
Dinulos JGH. Superficial fungal infections. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 13.