Healthy Habits - Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Skin Disease: Regaining Control From An Often Misunderstood And Misdiagnosed Skin Condition

 Imagine living with a condition that typically takes an average of 10 years to diagnose, with more than three misdiagnoses along the way.1 This is the reality for many living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). 

HS is a chronic, painful, and potentially debilitating inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by inflamed nodules that resemble boils and abscesses.2-5 These lesions typically appear in areas where the skin rubs together, like the armpits, groin area, and inner thighs.4-5 HS lesions often heal slowly and recur frequently, leading to tunnels under the skin and permanent scarring.4-5 

The impact of HS extends beyond physical symptoms.6-7 People living with HS experience stigma that affects their relationships, education, and careers – often preventing them from seeking treatment.6-7

In this interview, Dr. Angela J. Lamb, a renowned dermatologist specializing in HS, will discuss the symptoms and impact of HS, as well as the various treatment options available. Dr. Lamb will be joined by Imani, a social media influencer and HS patient, who will talk about how individuals living with HS can partner with their dermatologist to begin reclaiming their lives while managing this challenging skin condition.

Interview courtesy: UCB, Inc.

References

1. Kokolakis G, Wolk K, Schneider-Burrus S, et al. Delayed diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa and its effect on patients and healthcare system. Dermatology. 2020;236(5):421-430.

2. Jemec GBE. Clinical practice. Hidradenitis suppurativa. N Engl J Med. 2012;366(2):158-164.

3. Sabat R, Jemec GBE, Matusiak L, et al. Hidradenitis suppurativa. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2020;6(1):18.

4. Lee E, Alhusayen R, Lansang P, et al. What is hidradenitis suppurativa? Can Fam Physician. 2017;63(2):114–20.

5. Ingram JR. The epidemiology of hidradenitis suppurativa. Br J Dermatol. 2020;183(6):990-98. doi:10.1111/bjd.19435. Epub 2020 Sep 3. PMID: 32880911.

6. Shukla N, Paul M, Halley M, et al. Identifying barriers to care and research in hidradenitis suppurativa: findings from a patient engagement event. Br J Dermatol. 2020;182(6):1490-2. doi:10.1111/bjd.18818.

Vinkel C, et al. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Causes, Features, and Current Treatments. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018 Oct;11(10):17-23. Epub 2018 Oct 1. PMID: 30519375; PMCID: PMC6239161.