what is hidradenitis suppurativa?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating chronic skin condition that produces painful, recurring, deep-seated, boil-like abscesses that may start as pustules (small, pus-filled bumps) or grow to be the size of a golf ball or larger. These abscesses, nodules, or lesions can be painful & release a foul-smelling pus when they burst, impacting daily movement & quality of life.
HS doesn't only appear in areas where skin touches skin. The disease can develop anywhere hair follicles can be found, but hair growth doesn't have to be present for HS to develop. In fact, HS can be experienced in the groin, buttocks, armpits, chest, back, thighs, torso, head, face, & legs. The only places that HS cannot develop are on the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, or the red part of the lips.
HS severity levels are typically classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Health care professionals may use The Hurley Stage System of severity outlined below.
the hurley stages of hs
mild
stage 1
One or multiple isolated abscesses usually without significant scarring or sinus tracts. There can be surface discoloration scarring at stage 1 due to trauma from the abscesses.
moderate
stage 2
Recurrent abscesses, single or multiple widely separated lesions, with scarring and sinus tract formation.
severe
stage 3
Diffuse or broad involvement with extensive scarring and multiple interconnected sinus tracts (tunneling) and abscesses.
If you suspect you have HS, it’s vital to make an appointment with a HS specialist, dermatologist, or primary care physician to confirm and prevent infection or worsening symptoms.
Illustrations by @carmelliburdi
