Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, recurrent skin condition that causes painful, inflamed lesions and boils to form in the armpits and groin. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder and can be either hereditary or caused by a bacterial infection.
HS is marked by painful abscesses and boils on the skin of the groin, underarms, and armpits. These lesions typically rupture spontaneously and drain.
Signs and Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
The onset of HS can happen at any age but it usually develops during puberty and often worsens with age. The cause of this disease is unknown although there are theories which include genetic predisposition, obesity, hormonal changes or stress.
HS generally starts as red patches on your skin that may itch or burn before larger boils appear and sometimes rupture. The boils can also spread to other parts of your body including your buttocks and thighs.
A person may have one or more areas where they experience HS lesions but not all people with HS will feel pain in
Causes of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
The main cause of Hidradenitis Suppurativa is still unknown. However, there are certain risk factors that can cause this condition to develop. These include:
-Genetics (hereditary)
-Tight clothes (clothing can push sweat and bacteria onto the skin)
-Trauma or injury to a hair follicle or sweat gland -Bacterial or viral infections in these areas
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment
The treatment for this condition is determined by its severity. For mild cases which are able to be treated without surgery or medication, treatments may include antibiotic ointments or medications to help control infections. Patients with moderate to severe cases may need surgery in order to remove excess tissue and stop inflammation from recurring. Lastly, patients with severe Hidradenitis suppurativa may need anti-inflammatory medication or immunosuppressive medications that have side effects such as hair loss or skin rashes.
Prevention Techniques for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
There is no known way to prevent HS, but following personal hygiene practices such as wearing loose clothing and using mild soaps can help reduce bacterial growth on skin surfaces.
Resources:
Clinical Epidemiology and Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa