Commentary: Erythrasma Capitis and Hair Loss – An Underdiagnosed Entity?
December 2025
in “
Medical & Clinical Case Reports Journal
”
Studysummary This article suggests that scalp erythrasma caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum may be underdiagnosed and that oral antibiotics used for other conditions could reduce its risk.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Corynebacterium minutissimum, typically part of normal skin flora, is known to cause erythrasma in various body regions but is rarely reported on the scalp. There is only one case report involving two young women where this bacterium caused diffuse and patched hair loss on the scalp, suggesting the possibility of underdiagnosis. Oral antibiotics used for other infections and acne might reduce the risk of scalp erythrasma, potentially preventing this rare outcome.
