What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating, chronic, complex inflammatory illness which presents with extremely painful recurring boil-like abscesses.
These abscesses may start out as pustules (small, pus filled bumps/sores) that can develop anywhere hair follicles are found. It is possible to experience abscesses or lesions anywhere on the body with the exception of the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and darker part of the lips.
HS has a huge impact on the quality of life physically, mentally, socially, emotionally and financially.
Quiz yourself: Is it HS?
Wondering if you have HS? Answer a set of simple questions to get the answers you need now.
If you don’t have a dermatologist, we’d encourage you to find one here.
Learn more about HS here.
Hurley Stages of Hidradenitis Suppurativa:
There are three stages to assess severity, with possible in-between stages where you may experience more severe symptoms without tunnel formation. Different body areas can also show varying stages (e.g., stage 1 in the armpits, stage 2 in the groin).
- Stage 1: Isolated abscesses, usually no significant scarring; possible surface discoloration.
- Stage 2: Recurrent abscesses with significant scarring and sinus tract formation.
- Stage 3: Extensive scarring with multiple interconnected abscesses and sinus tracts.
What causes HS?
The cause of HS remains entirely unknown. The best way we’ve heard it explained is that in acne the pore ruptures and the contaminants are released. With HS, the pores do not rupture and your innate immune system starts a small war trying to get rid of the contaminants that remain under the skin. This causes inflammation, redness, and swelling.
This does not mean that HS is an infection or that our abscesses are infected. The reason for the follicular occlusion is still unknown. Read more about follicular occlusions here.
What can trigger your HS?
HS triggers are unique to each person and what is a trigger for one may not be for another. Some common triggers discussed in the community can include:
- Clothing (fabric, fit, etc.)
- Weather (humidity and heat)
- Food and Nutrition
- Exercise
- Friction
- Stress
- Mechanical Stress (sitting a certain way)
Read more about triggers here.
Treatment Options
There are currently only 3 FDA approved treatments for HS, however, there are many off-label treatment options available for use.
The future of HS treatments is exciting, the pipeline is full and robust; there is potential of another 1-2 drugs being approved for HS during the next year or two with many more to follow.