Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)
Written by; Jenna Loeser, PA-C
What is HS?
A chronic inflammatory condition that affects areas of the body that contain sweat glands like the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. Patients will get boils and abscesses that come and go in these areas.
The condition is more common in females, age 20-40 years old
Risk Factors: smoking, genetics, insulin resistance, obesity, Chron’s Disease, mechanical stress, hormones
Although there is no cure for the condition, there are treatment options to help control symptoms
How do you get HS?
The exact cause of HS is not completely understood. It is known to be an autoimmune condition that causes plugging of the hair follicles which leads to inflammation and bacteria build-up which leads to formation of boils that can rupture and cause scarring.
What to look out for?
Boils and cysts that are located in the armpits, groin, and under the breasts
Lesions that come and go and cause intermittent pain
Cysts that rupture and drain and then cause scarring
Lesions are commonly bilateral on the body
Treatment Options:
Topicals: benzoyl peroxide wash, clindamycin solution
Oral antibiotics: tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, clindamycin, erythromycin
Oral medications: Isotretinoin, prednisone
Injections: Kenalog, Humira
Surgical: I&D, excision
Treatment Goals:
Relieve pain, reduce flares, prevent worsening of the condition
If you think you may have HS, or want to discover new treatment options, come visit us! Make an appointment here.
Source: dermnetnz.org
