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Follow up:
a) Response to the antibiotic
b) For proper timing of surgical intervention.
3.6.4. Erythrasma
Erythrasma is a chronic superficial infection of the intertriginous areas of the skin. It is
caused by over growth of Corynebacterium minutissimum, which usually is present as
a normal flora of the skin.
A warm, humid climate, obesity and Diabetes is a predisposing factor. It is commonly
seen among adults.
Among normal populations, mild toe-cleft scaling maceration is common.
Clinically manifest with pink, brawn scaly macules or macerated white areas. It occurs
most commonly in the groins, axillae and the intergluteal and submammary flexures,
or between the toes.
In the groins, it affects the area of one or both thighs in contact with the scrotum. Dark
faintly scaly patch on both sides of inner thigh with ill defined margins.
Differential diagnosis (DDx):
• Pityriasis versicolor
On the thighs, groins and pubic area, Tinea cruris may be simulated, but the relative
lack of inflammation, complete absence of vesiculation and absence of satellite lesions
point against Tinea.
It is difficult to differentiate erythrasma of the toe clefts from Tinea pedis or Candida
infection.
Since most patients have both Candida and erythrasma, it may worsen if only one
condition is treated.
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