Does erythrasma cause body odour?

Erythrasma is a superficial bacterial infection that commonly develops where skin touches skin, such as the groin, underarms or between the toes. It may produce reddish-brown or pink patches with fine scaling. Moisture, friction and bacteria in a fold can alter the smell of the skin, so odour may occur alongside the visible change. Odour alone cannot identify erythrasma; sweat, fabric, fungal conditions and other skin problems can cause similar symptoms.

Keep the affected fold gently clean and dry. Pat rather than rub after washing, choose breathable clothing, and change damp garments promptly. Avoid sharing towels and avoid applying strong antiseptics or steroid creams without advice, because these can irritate skin or obscure the appearance. A clinician can examine the colour and scale and may use a simple light-based examination or skin sampling when the diagnosis is uncertain. Treatment may involve a prescribed topical antibacterial medicine, with the choice guided by the location and extent of the rash.

Arrange a medical assessment if the odour persists despite washing, the patch spreads, or the skin becomes sore, cracked or persistently itchy. Seek prompt care for rapidly increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever or significant pain, particularly if you have diabetes or reduced immunity. These features can point to a deeper or different infection that needs timely treatment.

Could the patch be erythrasma or another fold rash? Does the location need a test? Which cleanser and treatment are suitable for my skin? How should I reduce moisture and friction while it heals?