Corynebacterium minutissimum

Corynebacterium minutissimum is a type of bacteria that is part of the normal skin flora. It is the causative agent of a skin condition known as Erythrasma, which is characterized by pink patches that turn brown over time.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Corynebacterium is a genus of bacteria that are Gram-positive, aerobic, non-spore-forming rods. The species Corynebacterium minutissimum is part of this genus and is known to cause Erythrasma, a skin condition that is more common in warm climates.

Erythrasma[edit | edit source]

Erythrasma is a skin condition caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum. It is characterized by pink patches that turn brown over time. The patches are often found in the folds of the skin, such as the groin, armpit, and between the toes. The condition is more common in warm climates and in individuals with diabetes.

Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Erythrasma is typically made through clinical examination and confirmed with a Wood's lamp examination, which causes the patches to fluoresce a coral-red color. Treatment typically involves the use of topical or oral antibiotics, such as erythromycin or clarithromycin.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Corynebacterium minutissimum Resources
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