Peer Reviewed
Dermatology clinic

An update on hidradenitis suppurativa

Vernon Sc Pua, Catherine M Reid
Abstract

GPs are often the first point of contact for patients suffering from hidradenitis suppurativa, a debilitating condition that is difficult to treat.

Key Points

    Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic condition characterised by recurrent nodules or abscesses, sinus tract formation and scarring. It occurs in areas with apocrine glands. The three most commonly affected sites are the axillae (Figures 1a and b), inguinal region and perianal/ perineal region (Figures 2a and b). Other affected sites include the mammary and inframammary area, buttock, pubic region, chest, scalp, retroauricular area and eyelid.