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erythrasma
ICD-10 Codes
Related ICD-10:
Description
Erythrasma is a superficial skin infection that presents as well-defined pink or brown patches with fine scaling and superficial fissures, often accompanied by mild itching [1]. The affected areas are typically warm and wet regions of the skin, such as the axillary, inguinal, and interdigital folds [9].
The clinical features of erythrasma include:
- Well-defined pink or brown patches
- Fine scaling
- Superficial fissures
- Mild itching
It's worth noting that erythrasma can coexist with or be confused with other causes of intertrigo, including fungal infections such as tinea or Candida albicans [4]. The infection is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium minutissimum, which is a normal part of skin flora [8].
In some cases, erythrasma may present as red-brown, wrinkling, possibly scaling, and pruritic plaques in flexural areas, including the interdigital (most common form), axillary, inguinal, intergluteal, and submammary folds [15]. The lesions often begin as pink or red and over time develop a brown color.
References:
[1] - Context result 4 [8] - Context result 8 [9] - Context result 9 [15] - Context result 15
Additional Characteristics
- superficial skin infection
- pink or brown patches
- fine scaling
- superficial fissures
- mild itching
- warm and wet regions of the skin
- axillary, inguinal, and interdigital folds
- Corynebacterium minutissimum
- normal part of skin flora
- red-brown, wrinkling, possibly scaling, and pruritic plaques
- flexural areas
- interdigital (most common form)
- axillary, inguinal, intergluteal, and submammary folds
Signs and Symptoms
Common Signs and Symptoms of Erythrasma
Erythrasma, a superficial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum bacteria, can manifest in various ways. The most noticeable signs and symptoms include:
- Reddish-brown patches: These are the most common signs of erythrasma, appearing as well-defined borders on the affected skin [11].
- Fine scales: Scales or maceration of the skin may occur, especially between the toes (interdigital) or in the groin area (intertriginous) [4, 12].
- Mild itching or burning: Some people may experience mild itchiness or burning sensations, particularly in the groin area [6, 8].
- Scaly skin: The affected areas may exhibit scaly skin, which can sometimes cause the skin to crack or peel [12].
- Cracking skin: In some cases, the skin between the toes (interdigital) may experience fissuring or cracking due to erythrasma [10].
Other Notable Symptoms
In addition to these common signs and symptoms, erythrasma can also present with:
- Wrinkled skin: Mildly wrinkled skin may be observed in some cases [2].
- Brown patches: Brown patches may appear on the affected skin, especially in intertriginous areas [3].
Important Considerations
It's essential to note that erythrasma is generally a harmless condition and usually does not show any symptoms. However, if left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications.
References: [1] - Not provided (since there was no relevant information in the search results) [2] - Context 2 [3] - Context 3 [4] - Context 4 [5] - Not provided (since there was no relevant information in the search results) [6] - Context 6 [7] - Not provided (since there was no relevant information in the search results) [8] - Context 8 [9] - Not provided (since there was no relevant information in the search results) [10] - Context 10 [11] - Context 11 [12] - Context 12
Additional Symptoms
- Scaly skin
- Wrinkled skin
- Reddish-brown patches
- Fine scales
- Mild itching or burning
- Cracking skin
- Brown patches
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic Tests for Erythrasma
Erythrasma, a superficial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum, can be diagnosed through various tests. The following are some of the diagnostic tests used to confirm the presence of erythrasma:
- Wood's Lamp Examination: This is a non-invasive test that uses ultraviolet light to examine the affected skin. The bacteria that cause erythrasma produce compounds called porphyrins, which show a red fluorescence under the light [3][6]. This test is considered the diagnostic procedure of choice for erythrasma [9].
- Lab Tests: Scrapings from the skin patch can be examined in a laboratory to confirm the presence of Corynebacterium minutissimum. This test can help diagnose erythrasma and rule out other conditions [4][5].
- Skin Biopsy: A skin biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis of erythrasma. However, this is typically reserved for cases where the diagnosis is unclear or when there are concerns about other underlying conditions [4].
These tests can help healthcare professionals diagnose erythrasma and develop an effective treatment plan.
References:
[1] P Forouzan · 2020 · Cited by 29 [2] by MR HOLDINESS · 2003 · Cited by 20 [3] The erythrasma wood’s lamp test is noninvasive and uses a lamp to shine ultraviolet light on your skin. [4] These tests can help diagnose erythrasma: Lab tests of scrapings from the skin patch; Examination under a special lamp called a Wood lamp; A skin biopsy [5] Nov 30, 2022 — These tests can help diagnose erythrasma: Lab tests of scrapings from the skin patch; Examination under a special lamp called a Wood lamp; A ... [6] Diagnosis of Erythrasma ... Erythrasma fluoresces a characteristic coral-red color under a Wood light due to production of porphyrin by the causative bacterium. [7] by P Forouzan · 2020 · Cited by 30 — The diagnosis of erythrasma can be confirmed through observing coral-pink fluorescence during Wood lamp examination of the affected skin. ... [8] Oct 4, 2024 — Laboratory Studies. Wood lamp examination of erythrasma lesions reveals coral-red fluorescence of lesions (see the image below). Results may be ... [9] by MR HOLDINESS · 2003 · Cited by 20 — Examination with Wood's light shows a coral-red fluorescence and is the diagnostic procedure of choice; however, microscopic examination and ...
Additional Diagnostic Tests
- Skin Biopsy
- Lab Tests
- Wood's Lamp Examination
Treatment
Treatment Options for Erythrasma
Erythrasma, a skin condition caused by bacterial infection, can be treated with various medications. The primary goal of treatment is to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection and alleviate symptoms.
- Topical Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics such as erythromycin, clindamycin, or fusidic acid are commonly used to treat erythrasma. These creams or ointments can be applied directly to the affected area to kill the bacteria.
- Oral Antibiotics: In more severe cases of erythrasma, oral antibiotics such as clarithromycin may be prescribed. This type of treatment is usually reserved for extensive infections that require a stronger antibiotic to clear up quickly.
Specific Medications
- Erythromycin: Erythromycin is often considered the drug of choice for treating erythrasma. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth and can be administered topically or orally.
- Clarithromycin: This oral antibiotic is another effective treatment option for erythrasma, particularly in cases where topical antibiotics are not sufficient.
Treatment Duration
The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the infection and the type of medication used. Typically, topical antibiotics may be applied for 5-7 days, while oral antibiotics like clarithromycin may be taken for 10-14 days.
References:
- [1] Oct 4, 2024 — Erythrasma may be treated with topical agents, oral agents, or both. First-line therapy consists of topical erythromycin or clindamycin or fusidic acid or ...
- [6] Oct 4, 2024 — Erythromycin is the drug of choice. It inhibits bacterial growth, possibly by blocking dissociation of peptidyl t-RNA from ribosomes, ...
- [8] by MR HOLDINESS · 2003 · Cited by 20 — The most effective treatment is erythromycin (250 mg, four times daily for 14 days) with cure rates (both clinical and bacteriologic) as high as 100 percent.
- [9] by MR Holdiness · 2002 · Cited by 133 — Erythromycin 250mg four times daily for 14 days is the treatment of choice and other antibacterials include tetracycline and chloramphenicol; however, the use ...
Recommended Medications
- Oral Antibiotics
- Topical Antibiotics
- clarithromycin
- Clarithromycin
- erythromycin
- Erythromycin
💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.
Differential Diagnosis
Erythrasma is a bacterial infection of the skin typically caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum. When it comes to differential diagnosis, several conditions can be confused with or coexist with erythrasma.
Conditions to Consider:
- Perianal streptococcal cellulitis: This condition causes pain and bright redness in the perianal area, similar to erythrasma.
- Psoriasis: Erythrasma may be mistaken for psoriasis due to its appearance on the skin.
- Dermatophytosis: A fungal infection that can cause symptoms similar to erythrasma.
- Candidiasis: Also known as thrush, this fungal infection can coexist with or be confused with erythrasma.
- Pityriasis versicolor: A condition caused by Malassezia yeast that can appear similar to erythrasma.
- Intertrigo: A skin condition characterized by inflammation and redness in the folds of the skin, which can be mistaken for erythrasma.
Key Points to Consider:
- Erythrasma is more commonly found in diabetic and elderly populations [8].
- The differential diagnosis of erythrasma includes a range of conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
- A thorough examination and medical history are essential to accurately diagnose erythrasma and rule out other conditions.
References:
[3] Perianal streptococcal cellulitis is a condition that causes pain and bright redness in the perianal area, similar to erythrasma. [4] The differential diagnosis of erythrasma includes psoriasis, dermatophytosis, candidiasis, and intertrigo. [6] Differential diagnoses of candidiasis, dermatophyte infection, erythrasma, pityriasis versicolor, and terra firma-forme dermatosis were discussed in the context of skin infections. [9] Pityriasis versicolor (sometimes called tinea versicolor) is a condition caused by Malassezia yeast that can appear similar to erythrasma.
Additional Differential Diagnoses
- Hailey-Hailey disease
- dermatophytosis
- tinea cruris
- obsolete tinea
- seborrheic dermatitis
- Perianal streptococcal cellulitis
- Intertrigo
- psoriasis 2
- candidiasis
- pityriasis versicolor
Additional Information
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- https://w3id.org/def/predibionto#has_symptom_10716
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- UMLS_CUI:C0014752
- IAO_0000115
- A pyoderma that is characterized by brown, scaly skin patches that are generalized or iterdigital (between the toes or fingers) and is caused by infection with corynebacterium minutissimum.
- rdf-schema#label
- erythrasma
- oboInOwl#hasExactSynonym
- Infection due to Corynebacterium minutissimum
- rdf-schema#subClassOf
- http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/DOID_4223
- relatedICD
- http://example.org/icd10/L08.1
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