This is a skin condition that affects skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts and between the toes. It may also occur on other parts of the body.
Dr Rob Hicks last medically reviewed this article in February 2008
Erythrasma
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What causes it?
Erythrasma is caused by a bacteria called Corynebacterium minutissimum. It's often confused with other skin infections.
What are the symptoms?
The rash of erythrasma appears as a slowly enlarging area of pink or brown dry skin that has a fine, scaly, wrinkled surface.
Usually it doesn't cause any symptoms, although sometimes it can feel itchy and uncomfortable.
Who's affected?
Adults are most often affected. People with diabetes or who are overweight are more likely to develop erythrasma. It occurs more commonly in humid environments.
Avoiding being overweight can help reduce the chance of it developing.
What's the treatment?
Topical or oral antibiotics are used to treat the infection.
Using antibacterial soap may prevent the infection recurring once it has been treated.
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