Hidradenitis suppurativa

A chronic, non-contagious inflammatory skin disease that occurs in the folds of the skin, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, perianal areas and submammary folds in women.

It is more prevalent among women and black people from adolescence to the age of 40.

It originates in the hair follicles of skin folds and leads to inflammation, the appearance of nodules, painful abscesses, fistulas and scarring. It is a recurring disease exacerbated by obesity and smoking.

It manifests as painful lumps that exude pus. The pus discharge causes an unpleasant odour and, over time, the fistulas turn into scars on the skin of the affected area. The condition can be disabling due to the pain, odour and scars, which can hinder limb mobility.

It is diagnosed through medical history and physical examination of the folds. If possible, samples of fluid drained from the abscesses should be taken for laboratory analysis.

Treatment depends on severity and may include drugs - alone or in combination with surgery. The most commonly used drugs are antibiotics, corticosteroids, hormones, immunomodulators and retinoids. Most patients will also require painkillers to relieve the pain.

The objectives of surgery are to drain the pus and remove the scar tissue. It may also be necessary to remove lumps and expose tunnels or fistulas located under the skin.

Laser hair removal may be helpful in the early stages. In more advanced stages, laser therapy can be used to treat hidradenitis suppurativa-related sores.