Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Update on Diagnosis and Treatment

Jun
2014
Vol. 33. No. 3

Introduction

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also called acne inversa, is a
chronic, debilitating skin disease characterized by painful, deep inflammatory lesions. These lesions, once believed to represent a disease of the sweat glands, now are thought to arise in the terminal hair follicles in the apocrine gland–bearing areas of the body. The regions typically affected are the intertriginous areas—the axillae, groin (genital, perigenital, anal, and perianal
areas), infra- and intermammary skin, buttocks, and upper thighs, although other areas—such as the nape of the neck and scalp—can be involved.

If you would like to complete the CME portion of this Supplement or to receive the handout, go to http://www.globalacademycme.com/cme-topics/skin-disease-education-foundation-dermatology/cme-library/single-article/hidradenitis-suppurativa-update-on-diagnosis-and-treatment/6b8eb39e28367b2bc9af52c4a6ed1b3b.html

 

Natural History, Presentation, and Diagnosis of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Robert G Micheletti, MD

The diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a clinical one based on characteristic history and physical exam. No confirmatory laboratory tests exist, and although histologic features can support the diagnosis or rule out alternate diagnoses, histologic findings alone are not diagnostic.

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Recognizing and Managing Comorbidities and Complications in Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Alan Menter, MD

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a disease that must be considered and treated in a context much broader than just the consideration of skin lesions and sinus tracts. Clinicians who diagnose HS also must recognize and be prepared to manage the significant comorbidities and complications associated with this chronic, debilitating disease.

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