Erythrasma
Pronunciation: eh-rith-RAZ-mah
A superficial bacterial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum, presenting as well-demarcated, brownish-red, slightly scaly patches in intertriginous areas.
Full Definition
Erythrasma is a chronic, low-grade infection of the superficial epidermis caused by the Gram-positive bacillus Corynebacterium minutissimum, which produces porphyrins that fluoresce coral-red under Wood's lamp examination—a key diagnostic feature. It typically affects the axillae, groin, and toe web spaces, and is more prevalent in diabetic, obese, or immunocompromised individuals. Editors must not confuse erythrasma with tinea cruris or intertrigo, as the distinction has direct antibiotic versus antifungal treatment consequences. The term has no standard abbreviation and should be spelled without a terminal 'e' (not 'erythrasmae').
Usage
Usage note: Flag any use of 'erythrasma' in documents discussing antifungal treatment—the organism is bacterial, and the confusion has clinical safety implications.
In Context
- "Wood's lamp examination demonstrated coral-red fluorescence, confirming erythrasma rather than tinea cruris." — Outpatient dermatology report
- "The patient's erythrasma in the axillary folds was treated successfully with a course of oral erythromycin." — GP correspondence letter