Does erythrasma cause itchy groin?

Erythrasma is a bacterial infection of the outer skin, often in warm areas where moisture and friction collect. In the groin, it may appear as a smooth pink, red-brown or darker patch with a fine surface scale. Some people notice itch, while others mainly notice colour change, irritation or a smell. Groin itching has many possible causes, including fungal infection, contact irritation and inflammatory skin disease, so the sensation does not establish the diagnosis by itself.

Wash gently, dry the fold carefully and wear loose, breathable underwear. Change after exercise or sweating, and do not share towels. Try not to scratch, since broken skin can become more irritated or infected. Avoid using leftover antifungal, antibiotic or steroid products as a substitute for an assessment; the wrong product can delay the right diagnosis. A clinician can inspect the border, scale and distribution and may perform a skin test if erythrasma needs to be distinguished from another rash.

Book an appointment when groin itching lasts, returns, spreads or is accompanied by a persistent discoloured patch. Seek prompt help for marked pain, warmth, swelling, blisters, open skin, pus, fever or rapidly worsening redness. Care is also advisable sooner if you have diabetes, take immune-suppressing medicines or cannot keep the area dry.

What features make this erythrasma rather than fungal irritation? Would a skin test help? Which treatment is safe for the groin? How long should I continue it, and how can I prevent moisture-related recurrence?