Keywords

hidradenitis suppurativa, inflammatory follicular disorder, wound care

Authors

1. Wang, Shirley C. MD
2. Wang, Sheila C. PhD
3. Alavi, Afsaneh MD, MSc, FRCPC
4. Alhusayen, Raed MD, MSc (Clin Epi), FRCPC
5. Bashash, Morteza PhD
6. Sibbald, R. Gary BSc, MD, MEd, FRCPC (Med Derm), MACP, FAAD, MAPWCA

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide an overview of treatment recommendations for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).

TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

OBJECTIVES: After participating in this educational activity, the participant should be better able to:

1. Describe current recommendations for treatment of HS.

2. Identify warnings, adverse effects, and implications for patient education.

ABSTRACT: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the intertriginous area. Patients with HS have several challenges to their quality of life and activities of everyday living, including malodor, purulent discharge, and discomfort. There is often a delay in diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The need for cosmetically acceptable local treatments and dressing application makes this disease an important challenge for wound care specialists. The choice of optimal treatment varies depending on the disease severity, expert knowledge, the availability of an interprofessional team, and patient factors.