Erythrasma is a common condition that affects 4% of the general population. It presents as a red rash in skin folds such as the axilla and under the breasts. It’s caused by a corynibacterium. This organism prefers to grow under moist skin conditions. Using a Wood’s lamp can identify it.

General measures used to treat this condition include keeping the affected area dry. Broad-spectrum antimicrobials such as fuscidic acid or topical benzoic acid 6% have been helpful. Combination agents such as clotrimazole with clindamycin can also be used, but care is needed to avoid overhydration due to the cream.

The use of oral antibiotics can also be helpful in treating more resistant cases. Erythrasma can respond to oral penicillins, erythromycin, and clindamycin. However, the development of drug resistance is common in this condition.

I’d recommend that you select your favourite antibiotic and use topical agents at the same time. It may be necessary to try different antibiotic combinations until one is successful. Once the condition is clear, care should be taken to keep the affected area dry. This will help prevent relapses.

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