Erythrasma

Erythrasma mainly manifests itself on moist skin. Clinically, yellow/red-brown macules appear, especially in the interdigital spaces, inguinal and/or axillary areas. Subjectively, itching may occur. Erythrasma is common (approx. 5% of the population affected in temperate latitudes; much more common in tropical climates - up to 20%). All age groups can be affected; gender-specific differences are not known. It is a bacterial infection of the upper layers of the skin with Corynebacterium minutissimum. Due to the production of porphyrin by C. minutissimum, the diagnosis is made by means of Wood light examination (reddish fluorescence). Treatment with topical application of fusidic acid for 14 days leads to healing in over 90% of patients. Recurrences are common, but these also respond well to topical antibiotic therapy.