Dermatology - Erythrasma

Dermatology - Erythrasma
Erythasma is a result of the excessive proliferation of Corynebacterium minutissimum, a type of gram-positive bacillus known as a diphtheroid bacteria, which is often found on the surface of human skin. Overgrowth arises inside a humid environment, specifically in areas where there is occlusion and skin folds.
Erythasma typically lacks symptoms except for inconspicuous changes in coloration.
Abnormalities
The lesions are well-defined, evenly shaped spots that have a brown or pinkish color. Darker-skinned individuals may get postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Maceration can occur in the interdigital areas of the foot.

The wood lamp inspection reveals a distinct red fluorescence, and the direct microscopy of skin scrapings using potassium hydroxide (KOH) does not show any presence of fungal microorganisms. The differential diagnosis encompasses intertriginous psoriasis, epidermal dermatophytosis, pityriasis versicolor, and Hailey-Hailey illness.

Advise patients to cleanse the affected area using benzoyl peroxide or sanitizing alcohol gel, and to ensure that the region remains dry to avoid the reappearance of the condition.