Management of cutaneous erythrasma

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Erythrasma is a superficial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum.
• It commonly affects intertriginous areas and is more prevalent in individuals with diabetes mellitus.
• Differential diagnosis includes psoriasis, dermatophytosis, candidiasis, and intertrigo.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnosis, treatment, and prophylaxis of erythrasma.
• To compare the efficacy of various treatment options.
• To propose a guideline for managing this cutaneous eruption.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of diagnostic methods including Wood's light examination and cultures.
• Analysis of treatment efficacy for systemic and topical agents.
• Evaluation of prophylaxis strategies.

Main Results:

• Systemic erythromycin shows high cure rates (up to 100%) and is more effective than tetracyclines for axillary and groin involvement.
• Topical treatments like Whitfield's ointment and sodium fusidate are effective, particularly for interdigital infections.
• Chloramphenicol use is limited due to potential bone marrow suppression.

Conclusions:

• Systemic erythromycin is the treatment of choice for erythrasma.
• Topical therapies are valuable for treatment failure or prophylaxis.
• Further research on clarithromycin and cost-effectiveness is warranted.