Hidradenitis Suppurativa
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
The Causes of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
The exact cause of HS remains unclear, but several factors contribute to its development. These factors include:
Genetics: HS tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
Inflammation: Inflammation plays a significant role in HS. It is believed that the hair follicles become blocked, leading to the formation of painful lumps and abscesses.
Immune System Dysfunction: An overactive immune system may contribute to the development of HS.
Hormones: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can trigger or exacerbate HS.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors: Smoking, obesity, and excessive sweating may increase the risk of developing HS.
What are the risk factors for HS?
A family history of HS (40% of patients have a family history)
Obesity
Insulin resistance
Cigarette smoking
Follicular occlusion syndrome (acne, dissecting cellulitis, pilonidal sinus)
Inflammatory bowel disease eg Crohn’s disease
Drugs: lithium
Recognizing the Symptoms
Hidradenitis Suppurativa presents a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity. Common signs and symptoms include:
Painful lumps and abscesses: These often occur in the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts.
Tunnels or tracts: Over time, tunnels or tracts may form beneath the skin, connecting the abscesses.
Scarring: Repeated flare-ups can lead to scarring, which can be disfiguring and emotionally distressing.
Pain and discomfort: HS can cause significant pain and discomfort, making everyday activities challenging.
Reduced mobility: In severe cases, HS can limit a person’s mobility and overall quality of life.
Classification of HS by severity
Stage I: Solitary or several isolated abscesses. No sinus tracts or scarring
Stage II: Recurrent abscesses, single or multiple, widely spaced with sinus tract formation
Stage iii: Diffuse involvement, recurrent abscesses
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for Hidradenitis Suppurativa, various treatment options can help manage the condition and provide relief from its symptoms. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and may include:
Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle by quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
Topical and oral antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection and inflammation.
Corticosteroids: These medications can help reduce inflammation and pain when applied topically or injected into affected areas.
Biologics: Newer treatments, known as biologics, can target specific aspects of the immune system and may be recommended for severe cases.
Surgery: In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to remove affected tissue or drain abscesses.
Laser therapy: Some individuals find relief from laser treatments, which can reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of scars.
Living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. It’s essential for individuals with HS to work closely with dermatologists and healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan. Support groups and counselling can also be valuable resources for managing the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a challenging skin disorder that can significantly impact a person’s life. However, with the right treatment and support, individuals with HS can lead fulfilling lives and manage their symptoms effectively. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of HS, seek medical attention promptly to begin the journey toward relief and improved quality of life.
Get a free online consultation
For online consultations, please phone 079 562 3251
Visit our facility
Suite 202, Westville Hospital, 7 Spine Road (now Harry Gwala Road), Westville, 3630, South Africa
- All Posts
- Skin Conditions
Viral warts Terminology: Viral warts (English) = Verruca vulgaris (Latin) Viral warts are common growths that can occur anywhere on…
Vitiligo Differential Diagnosis Pityriasis alba: Light coloured patches especially on the faces of children. Finely scaling. Lichen striatus: A rash…
Skin Cancer There are 3 common skin cancers. To learn more about each type, click on the relevant type of…
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Squamous Cell Carcinoma – also associated with sun exposure and more common on light skin than in…
Basal Call Carcinoma (BCC) BCC Adjacent to inner part of left eye BCC scalp BCC on wrist BCC Forearm BCC…
Psoriasis Gallery Photos: Courtesy Dr N Raboobee© (please do not reproduce) Narrow band UVB is used for extensive psoriasis not…
Pityriasis Versicolor Pityriasis versicolor, also called Tinea versicolor, is a fungal infection common in our environment. It is caused by…
Pre-Cancerous Conditions Solar keratoses Solar keratoses (actinic keratoses) are scaly areas of the skin resulting from excessive cumulative sun exposure…
Pityriasis Rosea What is Pityriasis rosea? Pityriasis Rosea refers to rash thought to be caused by the Herpes virus type…
Patch Testing Precautions during patch testing Please note that the chambers used for the test chemicals are housed in plastic…
Pityriasis Alba What is Pityriasis Alba? Pityriasis alba is a type of eczema that occurs commonly on the faces of…
Onychomycosis Onychomycosis refers to fungal infection of the nails. Fungal infection of the nails caused by a subgroup of fungi…
Non-Cancerous Growths Scope Solar lentigenes Seborrhoeic keratoses Skin tags Dermatosis papulosa nigrans Cherry angiomas (Campbell de Morgan spots) Sebaceous hyperplasia…
Molluscum Contagiosum What is molluscum contagiosum? pronounced (mol-us-kim con-tay-jee-o-zim) Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection which mainly affects children. As…
Mole Mapping We are pleased to introduce VIDIX, the newest technology in mole mapping. The device is capable of automatically…
Lichen Planus Lichen Planus wrists Lichen Planus Lower Back Hypertrophic Lichen Planus New treatment for oral lichen planus now available, using…
Hidradenitis Suppurativa What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa? Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating skin disorder characterized by the recurrent development of…
Hidradenitis Suppurativa What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa? Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating skin disorder characterized by the recurrent development of…
Atopic Dermatitis What is Atopic Dermatitis? Commonly referred to as ECZEMA, Atopic Dermatitis is a genetic skin disorder characterised by…
Alopecia Areata Patchy hair loss of unknown origin affecting the scalp, beard area or any other hair bearing part of…
Acne Gallery Isotretinoin (Roaccutane, Oratane, Acnetane) is taken in a dose of 1/2 to 1 mg/kg daily to reach a…
Acne Scarring How common is scarring in acne? Acne is basically a scarring condition and even mild acne needs to…