What is HS (Hidradenitis suppurativa)?
This is an excerpt from Mayoclinic.org. Click here to see full article.
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Overview
Hidradenitis suppurativa (hi-drad-uh-NIE-tis sup-yoo-ruh-TIE-vuh) is a skin condition that causes small, painful lumps to form under the skin. The lumps can break open, or tunnels can form under the skin. The condition mostly affects areas where the skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks and breasts.
Hidradenitis suppurativa tends to start after puberty. It can persist for many years and worsen over time, with serious effects on your daily life and emotional well-being. Medications and surgery can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Symptoms
Hidradenitis suppurativa can affect one spot or multiple areas of the body. Signs and symptoms of the condition include:
Blackheads. Small pitted areas of skin containing blackheads — often appearing in pairs or a "double-barreled" pattern — are a common feature.
Painful pea-sized lumps. The condition usually starts with a single, painful lump under the skin that persists for weeks or months. Later more bumps form. They usually appear in areas with hair follicles with many oil and sweat glands, such as the armpits, groin and anal area. They also occur where skin rubs together, such as the inner thighs, breast and buttocks.
Tunnels. Over time, tracts connecting the lumps may form under the skin. These wounds heal very slowly, if at all, and can leak pus, which may have an odor.
Some people with this condition experience only mild symptoms. Excess weight, stress, hormonal changes, heat or humidity may worsen symptoms. In women, the disease severity may lessen after menopause.
When to see a doctor
Early detection of hidradenitis suppurativa is key to getting effective treatment. See your doctor if your condition:
Is painful
Doesn't improve in a few weeks
Returns within weeks of treatment
Appears in several locations
Flares often
If you've already received a diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa, keep in mind that the warning signs of a disease flare are often similar to those that occurred originally. Also pay attention to any new signs or symptoms. These may indicate either a flare or a complication of treatment.
You may need to see a specialist in skin conditions (dermatologist) or a surgeon for long-term care.
Causes
The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa isn't known. It develops when hair follicles in the skin become blocked. Experts think it could be connected to hormones, inherited genes and immune system problems. Smoking, excess weight and metabolic syndrome also might play a role.
Hidradenitis suppurativa is not caused by an infection or being unclean, and it can't be spread to other people.
Risk factors
Factors that increase your chance of developing hidradenitis suppurativa include:
Age. Hidradenitis suppurativa most commonly occurs in women between the ages of 18 and 29. People who develop the condition at an early age may be at increased risk of developing more widespread disease.
Your sex. Women are more likely to develop hidradenitis suppurativa than are men.
Family history. A tendency to develop hidradenitis suppurativa can be inherited.
Obesity. Several studies have shown a relationship between being overweight and hidradenitis suppurativa.
Smoking. Smoking tobacco has been linked to hidradenitis suppurativa.
Complications
Persistent and severe hidradenitis suppurativa often causes complications, including:
Infection. The affected area is susceptible to infection.
Scars and skin changes. The wounds may heal but leave rope-like scars or pitted skin.
Restricted movement. Sores and scar tissue may cause limited or painful movement, especially when the disease affects the armpits or thighs.
Obstructed lymph drainage. The most common sites for hidradenitis suppurativa also contain many lymph nodes. Scar tissue can interfere with the lymph drainage system, which may result in swelling in the arms, legs or genitals.
Social isolation. The location, drainage and odor of the sores can cause embarrassment and reluctance to go out in public, leading to sadness or depression.
