Hidradenitis suppurativa: living with hope…

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also known as acne inversa, refers to an inflammatory skin disease which targets the apocrine  gland-bearing skin in the areas of axillae (armpits), under the breasts, and groin. The features of this skin condition include re-appearing of boil-like nodules and abscesses that turn into pus-like discharge and scars as well as turn into sinuses (become difficult to heal open wounds). Moreover, Hidradenitis suppurativa causes a lot of psychological stress which leads to problems with body image, anxiety, and depression.

Hidradenitis suppurativa usually starts with puberty and becomes most active during 20-40 years of age. Women are three times more likely to suffer from Hidradenitis suppurativa in comparison with men. Some of the risk factors include genetic predisposition, smoking, obesity, insulin resistance/metabolic syndrome, Crohn disease (inflammatory bowel disease), and follicular occlusion disorders.

The treatment oh Hidradenitis Suppurativa include general measures such as weight loss, smoking cessation, medical and surgical treatments.

The medical management of Hidradenitis suppurativa is a challenging and long process and may include topical and systemic treatments comprising antibiotics, systemic retinoids and new upcoming immunomodulatory agents, for instance, biologic Adalimumamb known as Humira that was approved a few years ago for the treatment this condition.

The surgical management of Hidradenitis suppurativa  includes the incision and drainage of acute abscesses; laser ablation and curettage of nodules, sinuses, and abscesses; wide local excision of persistent nodules, and radical excisional surgery of entire target zone.

Centre for Medical and Surgical Dermatology offers unique and personalized Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment options for each patient.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Awareness Week is the week of the year that we dedicate to our patients with this disease. #HSHope