British Association of Dermatologists
About Contact Disclaimer Authors
Introduction
Glossary
What is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?
What areas of the body are affected?
What does HS look like?
Who tends to have HS?
What causes HS?
Is HS hereditary?
Is HS catching?
Is HS serious?
Does anything make HS worse?
Will HS go away?
How will HS be diagnosed?
How can HS be treated?
Are there any complications with HS?
How can I help myself?
What sort of dressings should I use?
Will daily life be affected by HS?
Will having HS affect pregnancy or giving birth?
I am about to see a healthcare professional; what do I ask them
Other frequently asked questions
What do I do next?
Where can I get more information?
References
Print Page
>> What is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?
  • Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease.
  • It results in recurrent lesions which are painful boil-like lumps, mainly in the armpits and groin. These often leak pus.
  • Over time, these lesions may leave scarring and thickened skin.
  • HS affects around 1% of adults but hardly ever affects pre-pubertal children.
  • HS is a stubborn disease and can be difficult to treat. There are a number of treatments that can be tried including medications and surgery.
  • The lesions can be painful and embarrassing which means HS has a big impact on everyday life.
  • It is not fully understood yet exactly what causes HS and how it develops.

There are several names for HS. These are

  • acne inversa
  • Verneuil’s disease
  • pyoderma fistulans significa.

These are all the same disease, but just different names.
Throughout this site, we have used the name hidradenitis suppurativa.

Next Page

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
site designed by ludwood interactive