Hidradenitis Suppurativa Flashcards
What is hidradenitis suppurativa?
A chronic, painful inflammatory skin disorder
Who are most likely to develop it?
Women more than men
Adults under 40
What risk factors are there?
FH Smoking Obesity Diabetes PCOS Mechanical stretching of skin
What is it characterised by?
The development of inflammatory nodules and pustules
In later stages fistula and sinus tract formation occurs - discharge pus
Scarring
When should you suspect it?
Recurrent diagnosis of furuncles or boils especially in intertriginous areas
Where is the most common site?
The axilla
Other areas where it can occur, apart from axilla, include?
Inguinal Inner thighs Perineal Perianal Inframammary skin
The nodules can rupture, discharging…
Purulent, maloderous material
How is it diagnosed?
Clinically
How is it managed?
Good hygiene, loose fitting clothes
Smoking cessation
Weight loss
Acute flares: steroids - intralesional or oral or flucloxacillin
Surgical incision and drainage may be needed
