How Do You Spell ERYTHRASMA?

1. Erythrasma is a chronic skin infection caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium minutissimum. It is characterized by red or brown patches on the skin, typically affecting areas with skin folds, such as the groin, armpits, and between the toes.

   The condition is more prevalent in warm and humid climates, and it often occurs in individuals with excessive sweating or poor hygiene practices. Erythrasma is commonly diagnosed in adults, but it can also affect children.

   Symptoms of erythrasma include gradual expansion of the affected area, which appears as a reddish or brownish patch. The patches may become scaly and itchy, and they tend to merge together over time. In some cases, these patches may also emit a faint, coral red fluorescence when exposed to a special lamp called a Wood's light.

   Treatment for erythrasma usually involves the application of topical medications, such as antibacterial creams or ointments containing erythromycin or clindamycin. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe cases.

   Prevention strategies include maintaining good personal hygiene, keeping the affected areas dry, and avoiding tight-fitting clothing that can trap moisture. It is also essential to address any underlying conditions that may contribute to excessive sweating.

   If left untreated, erythrasma may persist for long periods or recur frequently. In rare cases, complications like superimposed fungal or yeast infections may occur. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment of erythrasma.

2. An eruption of reddish-brown patches, in the axillae and groins especially, due to the presence of a fungus, Microsporon or Microsporoides minutissimum.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ERYTHRASMA

The word "erythrasma" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words:

1. Erythros (ἐρυθρός) meaning "red"

2. Asma (ἄσμα) meaning "rash" or "spot"

Therefore, the word "Erythrasma" describes a red rash or spot, which aligns with the clinical presentation of the skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches.