Hidradenitis Suppurativa
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa also known as HS is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is not contagious. It affects the hair follicles and often leads to painful lumps, abscesses, or thickened, scarred skin.
What Causes Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
The exact cause of HS is unknown. However, experts believe it may be linked to:
- Autoimmune conditions (immune system dysfunction)
- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
- Family history of HS
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Obesity
- Smoking
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Symptoms
HS can affect both women and men, though it is more common in women. It usually appears in warm, moist areas of the body such as the armpits, groin, genitals, buttocks,
HS can appear on the skin as:
- Painful lumps or abscesses
- Blackheads (comedones)
- Thickened or scarred skin
If left untreated, HS can increase the risk of:
- Anemia
- Anxiety and depression
- Joint pain
- Sepsis (a serious infection in the bloodstream)
- Skin infections (cellulitis)
- Rarely, skin cancer
Diagnosis & Treatment
HS is usually diagnosed through a physical exam and a review of your medical history. In some cases, your provider may perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. This involves removing a small sample of skin to examine under a microscope.
- Topical Medications: Such as antiseptic washes, antiperspirants (reduces sweat production), clindamycin (an antibiotic), corticosteroids (to calm inflammation), retinoids (vitamin-A based medicine to help with skin turnover). These are applied to the skin to reduce pain and flair-ups.
- Whole-Body Treatments: Oral medications or injectable biologics (also known as systemic treatments) that work throughout the body to reduce inflammation and target the immune system when HS is more severe.
Managing HS goes beyond skin care. Your overall health and wellness can make a difference:
- Mental health matters. HS can increase the risk of anxiety and depression. You’re not alone and support is available.
- Healthy lifestyle choices. Eating anti-inflammatory foods such as berries, grapes, citrus fruits, and leafy greens may help reduce flare-ups. Avoiding smoking and heavy drinking may also help.
- Stress management. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and regular sleep can reduce symptoms.
- Ask for help. If you’re struggling with your mental health or need support, help is available.
- To speak with someone at UI Health, please call 866.600.CARE. To schedule an appointment or get connected with care.
Contact Us
Call 312.996.8666 to request an appointment with one of our dermatologists.
If you are concerned that you are at risk for skin cancer and would like to make an appointment for a screening and examination, please call 312.996.0106.
