Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Original Editor - Samuel Mayah

Top Contributors - Samuel Mayah and Kirenga Bamurange Liliane  

Introduction

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory condition that is often debilitating, causing extreme pain, abscesses, sinus tract formation, and scarring it affects the follicular epithelium in various areas of the body, including the axillae, buttocks, inguinal, perianal, and sub mammary regions. It is a recurrent disease characterized by apocrine-bearing skin involvement, particularly in intertriginous areas such as the genital skin. The disease can cause significant distress, loss of confidence, and poor quality of life, with adverse effects on sexual life.

Causes

The etiology of HS is multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. The exact cause of HS is not fully understood, but several factors have been identified as potential contributors. HS is more common in females and typically occurs in early adulthood Risk factors such as smoking, consumption of dairy products, and carbohydrates have also been associated with HS.

Signs/symptoms of Hidradenitis suppurativa

It is characterized by inflamed skin nodules, abscesses, pus discharge tunnels, and scarring in areas such as the axillae, groin, and perineal region. The signs and symptoms of HS include pain, pruritus, malodour, and suppuration. These symptoms can have a significant impact on the quality of life of HS patients, affecting general well-being, sexual distress, anxiety, depression, and sleep. The severity of these symptoms correlates with poorer quality of life. The assessment of signs and symptoms in HS patients should be thorough and included in routine evaluations to guide therapeutic modifications and improve patients' health.

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