That persistent skin rash might not be what you think. Don't misdiagnose your condition; understanding what is erythrasma is crucial for finding the right erythrasma treatment and finally getting relief.
What are the main causes of Erythrasma?
- The condition is caused by a superficial skin infection with the bacterium Corynebacterium minutissimum, which is a normal part of your skin flora.
- Excessive sweating and humidity create the perfect warm, moist environment for this bacteria to overgrow, especially in skin folds like the erythrasma armpit area.
- Having conditions like diabetes, being overweight, or possessing a weakened immune system can significantly increase your risk of developing this common skin infection.
Key symptoms of Erythrasma to watch for
- Look for well-defined pink or reddish-brown patches that may have fine scales or slight wrinkling, often appearing in the erythrasma groin or underarms.
- A key diagnostic sign is its unique coral-red glow when viewed under a Wood's lamp, helping to differentiate erythrasma vs fungal infection.
- The affected skin patches are typically asymptomatic but can sometimes cause mild itching or a burning sensation, especially in very humid weather conditions.
How can you prevent Erythrasma effectively?
- Maintain excellent personal hygiene by washing the affected areas daily with antibacterial soap and ensuring they are thoroughly dried to reduce the bacterial load.
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton to help minimize moisture and friction in susceptible skin folds.
- Managing your weight and keeping chronic conditions like diabetes under control can help reduce the skin environments where the bacteria tend to thrive.
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Image of the disease Erythrasma
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Is erythrasma contagious? Generally no, but proper diagnosis is key. See a dermatologist for effective topical antibiotics for erythrasma, like fusidic acid cream, to resolve the rash quickly.
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