Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa or Verneuil's disease, is a chronic, long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses, and scarring, primarily in areas where skin rubs together such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, buttocks, and genitals
Key Characteristics:
- HS causes painful, inflamed lumps that can break open and release fluid or pus, often leading to abscesses and tunnels under the skin called sinus tracts
- The lumps tend to recur and heal slowly, leaving behind scar tissue
- It usually begins after puberty, often in the teens or twenties, and affects about 1 in 100 people
- Women are affected more frequently than men, and the condition is more common in Black individuals and those with a family history of HS
- The exact cause is unknown but involves inflammation around hair follicles near sweat glands, possibly influenced by genetics, hormones, and environmental factors
Symptoms:
- Small blackheads and painful red lumps that enlarge, rupture, and drain pus with an unpleasant odor
- Formation of abscesses, scarring, and interconnected tunnels under the skin
- Severity ranges from mild (few lumps) to severe (widespread lesions and chronic pain)
Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and medical history, as there is no specific test for HS
- Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery to remove affected tissue
- Lifestyle changes such as wearing loose clothing, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding skin irritation can help manage the condition
Important Notes:
- HS is not contagious, not caused by poor hygiene, and not an infection itself, though secondary bacterial infections can occur
- The disease can significantly impact quality of life, causing pain, mobility issues, and emotional distress
In summary, hidradenitis suppurativa is a painful, chronic skin disease involving recurrent lumps and abscesses in sweat gland-bearing areas, with no known cure but various treatments to control symptoms and improve quality of life
