What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (hi-drad-uh-NIE-tis sup-yoo-ruh-TIE-vuh) is a condition that causes small, painful lumps to form under the skin. The lumps usually develop in areas where your skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks and breasts. The lumps heal slowly, recur, and can lead to tunnels under the skin and scarring.
Common Causes
Develops when hair follicles become blocked. The exact cause for this isn’t known. Experts think it could be connected to hormones, genetic predisposition, cigarette smoking or excess weight.
Hidradenitis suppurativa is not caused by an infection or being unclean, and it can’t be spread to other people.
Factors that increase your chance of developing hidradenitis suppurativa include:
- Age
- Sex
- Race
- Family history
- Certain conditions
- Smoking
How to Treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Treatment with medications, surgery or both can help control symptoms and prevent complications of hidradenitis suppurativa. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of the treatment options and how to develop an approach tailored to you.
- Medications
- Antibiotics applied to the skin / Pain medications
- Steroid injections
- Hormonal therapy
- Biologics
- Retinois
- Surgery
- Uncovering the tunnels
- Punch debridement
- Laser therapy
- Surgical removal
- Incision and drainage
