Why does erythrasma cause body odour?

Erythrasma is a superficial bacterial infection that favours skin folds such as the groin, underarms, and spaces between toes. Sweat, skin oils, shed cells, and moisture collect in these areas. Bacteria can alter this material, creating an odour that may persist even after washing. The skin may also show a flat pink, red-brown, or brown patch with fine scaling. Odour can be present with little discomfort, so the skin appearance matters when identifying the cause.

Have persistent or changing odour checked if it comes with a discoloured, scaly patch in a fold. Keep affected areas gently clean and dry, change damp clothing, and avoid sharing towels. Do not rely on deodorant or harsh scrubbing to treat the infection; a clinician may recommend a topical or other targeted treatment after examining the skin.

Arrange medical review if the area becomes painful, cracked, wet, swollen, or increasingly red, or if odour continues despite careful washing and drying. Seek prompt help for fever, rapidly spreading redness, pus, or marked tenderness, since another infection may be present alongside the surface rash.

Ask whether the colour and scale fit erythrasma or another fold rash, how long treatment should continue, and how to reduce moisture and friction. Mention diabetes, repeated episodes, new products, and any treatment already tried.