What do you need to know about hidradenitis suppurativa?
Summary Summary. Listen. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory, chronic skin disease characterized by recurrent, painful, boil-like lumps (nodules) under the skin. HS affects the areas around skin folds (e.g., armpits, groin, and breasts) and where apocrine glands (a form of sweat gland) and hair follicles are found.
Which is the best treatment for HS suppurativa?
For mild HS, topical antibiotics, injected corticosteroids, or anti-inflammatory pills may be used. Oral antibiotics may be used to help prevent new lesions. For moderate disease, people may be treated with oral antibiotics, oral retinoids such as isotretinoin, hormonal therapy, and/or surgery.
When do you need skin grafting for hidradenitis?
Surgical removal of lesions and skin grafting of affected areas may be necessary in cases of extensive, persistent scarred lesions. This surgery is extensive because not only must the skin containing the lesions be removed, but wide margins around the affected area must be removed as well.
What kind of surgery is needed for hidradenitis?
Treatment. Surgical removal of lesions and skin grafting of affected areas may be necessary in cases of extensive, persistent scarred lesions. This surgery is extensive because not only must the skin containing the lesions be removed, but wide margins around the affected area must be removed as well.
How old do you have to be to get hidradenitis?
Hidradenitis suppurativa affects between 1 to 4 percent of people in the U.S. It is more commonly seen in females than males. Hidradenitis suppurativa is typically seen in young people, starting at puberty (around 11 years of age) up to about age 40.
Is it possible to have a normal pregnancy with hidradenitis?
Hidradenitis suppurativa tends to improve in pregnancy in those who usually have flares during menstruation. Normal vaginal delivery is possible unless the patient has extensive painful genital lesions. Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic scarring condition.
What kind of Medicine to take for hidradenitis?
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to reduce pain and swelling. Anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen (Aleve®), and celecoxib (Celebrex®). Antibiotics, such as tetracycline, erythromycin, minocycline and amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium.
How often to get laser treatment for hidradenitis?
Laser hair reduction (mild HS only): Reducing the amount of hair on skin with HS can reduce the number of HS lumps that you have. Most patients need an average of three laser treatments, which are given once every four to six weeks. It takes about one month to notice an improvement.