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International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Patient Guide

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

    Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease that causes painful lumps, abscesses, and tunnels under the skin. It most commonly affects areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts.
  HS is not contagious, not caused by poor hygiene, and not a simple skin infection. It is a complex condition involving inflammation of hair follicles and the immune system.
In our clinic in Türkiye, Hidradenitis Suppurativa has been successfully treated for many years by Prof. Dr. Bekir Atik.


How Does Hidradenitis Suppurativa Start?

HS begins when hair follicles become blocked and inflamed. Over time, this inflammation can lead to:
Painful nodules
Recurrent abscesses
Chronic drainage
Sinus tracts (tunnels under the skin)
Permanent scarring
The disease often follows a relapsing and progressive course, meaning symptoms may worsen if not treated appropriately.

Common Symptoms of HS

Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa may experience:
Deep, painful lumps under the skin
Recurrent boils in the same areas
Drainage of pus or blood with unpleasant odor
Scarring and thickened skin
Restricted movement due to pain
Significant impact on quality of life
HS is more than a skin condition—it can affect daily activities, work, mental health, and self-confidence.

Who Is Affected by HS?

HS usually starts:
After puberty
Most commonly between ages 20–40
More frequently in women, though men may develop more severe disease
Risk factors may include:
Genetic predisposition
Smoking
Obesity
Hormonal influences
However, many patients develop HS without any clear risk factors.

Stages of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Hurley Classification)

HS severity is commonly classified into three stages:
Hurley Stage I
Single or multiple abscesses
No sinus tracts or scarring
Hurley Stage II
Recurrent abscesses
Formation of sinus tracts
Limited scarring
Hurley Stage III
Widespread disease
Multiple interconnected sinus tracts
Extensive scarring and chronic inflammation
Understanding the stage is crucial for choosing the most effective treatment strategy.

Is HS the Same as Acne or Infection?

Although HS may resemble acne or recurrent infections, it is a distinct inflammatory disease. Antibiotics alone often provide temporary relief but do not cure advanced HS.
This is why many patients say:
“I’ve tried everything, but it keeps coming back.”

How Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treated?

Treatment depends on the stage, location, and severity of the disease and may include:
Lifestyle modifications
Medical therapy (antibiotics, biologics)
Pain management
Surgical treatment for moderate to severe HS
For advanced cases, surgery is often the only definitive treatment to remove diseased tissue and prevent recurrence.

Living With Hidradenitis Suppurativa

HS can be physically and emotionally challenging. Many patients experience:
Delayed diagnosis
Misunderstanding by healthcare providers
Social isolation
Early diagnosis and treatment by an experienced HS-focused medical team can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

You Are Not Alone

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a lifelong condition, but effective treatment is possible. With a personalized and multidisciplinary approach, many patients achieve long-term relief and regain control of their lives.



Free Hidradenitis Suppurative Analysis Form

1. Select your gender

Man
Woman

2. Which regions are affected?

Armpit
Groin
Perianal Region
Other

3. How long do you suffer from Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

4. Which symptoms are you experiencing?

Pain
Flare, Burning
Itching
Hyperhidros

5. Write the contact information to which we can send the analysis results

FAQs

Is surgery the definitive solution in the treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is an inflammatory disease characterized by the accumulation and subsequent inflammation of the sweat gland as a result of the obstruction of the channels opening to the skin of the sweat glands, including the hair follicle.

The inflammation in this formed sweat gland then opens tunnels and spreads to other sweat glands and other tissues under the skin. Since it is an inflammatory disease, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory drugs have an effect in its treatment. These are anti-inflammatory drugs as well as antibiotics. In addition, some immunomodulatory drugs, which we call TNF-Alfa biokers, have also shown their effects in this disease.

However, an initiated Hidradenitis Suppurativa disease can never be cured completely with drugs. Because the inflammation does not completely disappear there. Healed areas heal with hydrosis, and an infection that started in areas with sweat glands and hair follicles can recur at short or long intervals. Here, real and complete treatment is only possible with surgery.

There are several forms of the surgical method: One of them is the methods that will drain the inflammation and relax the patient. With these -minor surgical procedures- inflammation is eliminated in the active period. But the definitive treatment is based on the method of completely removing the diseased area in that region and covering those areas with skin patches. When this entire inflammatory area is removed, the chance of recurrence of the disease in that area is zero. However, where there are sweat glands in other parts of the body, there is still a chance for the disease to arise. The thing to do here is to excise that area with minor surgical interventions as soon as the disease starts, so that people can return to their normal life.

As a result, there is a complete cure for Hidradenitis Suppurativa. The method for this is only surgery.

Is hidradenitis a genetic disease?

The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa is not known yet. However, genetic factors are one of the most important factors of this disease. In addition, hormones, excessive weight, alcohol and cigarette consumption are known to trigger hidradenitis supurativity. 

In which regions is the most common?

Hidradenitis suppurativa is frequently seen in the areas such as armpit, underarm, groin, belly button circumference, hips, inner legs and female genitals. 

Is there any non-surgical treatment of hidradenitis?

In the cases of early diagnosed hidradenitis suppurativa, progression of the disease can be prevented by drug treatment. However, the region's surgical removal is the most effective treatment. 

What are the characteristics of the hidradenitis wounds?

Hidradenitis suppurativa is characterized by small and flowing tubers that initially penetrate beneath the skin in the regions where it is seen. These chronic wounds can progress in the form of tunnels under the skin with time, and can also be seen in the surface of the skin as itching and itchy wounds. 

How many sessions are performed?

Hidradenitis suppurativa disease can be done in a single session by looking at the patient's condition and the size and depth of the wound, it can also take a few sessions. 

Is surgery a difficult operation?

As with any surgical operation, the degree of difficulty may increase or decrease depending on the person's body resistance, the size of the wound and the distribution area. Your doctor will share the most accurate information on this subject with your previous examinations. 

Is the surgery the exact solution?

Hidradenitis suppurativa begins after puberty. It can continue for many years and may worsen over time. The treatment of this disease with medications is not a definitive solution. Although it extinguishes for the moment, the time may also flare again. The definitive solution is surgery. If the surgery is well planned and taken broadly, it is not expected to be seen again in the received areas. 

How long is the duration of anesthesia done with the type of surgery?

Hidradenitis suppurativa usually takes 2-3 hours depending on the width of the wound site and the area under general anesthesia. 

Is hidradenitis a contagious disease?

Although HS is not an infectious disease, it can impair the quality of life of people living with this disease because it is intervined too late. 

When is the return to daily life after the operation?

After hidradenitis operations, it will be enough to stay in hospital for 1-2 days by looking at the condition of the person. One may start eating on the same day and making short walks. When the doctor foresees, the sutures are removed and the patient can return to his daily life at the end of a week. 

Is surgery a painful operation?

As in all surgical operations, the state of pain varies depending on the person's body. In addition, the width of the region to be operated, the areas to be interfered with also affect the pain status. However, the pain can be controlled in the hospital environment. Then you can easily overcome this period with your doctor's recommended painkillers. 

Is hidradenitis surgery a risky operation?

Each surgical operation carries a certain risk. These risks vary according to the technique, the general condition of the patient, the size of the disease, the size of the intervention and many other reasons. In addition to this, bleeding, infection, repetition of the region due to inability to be taken out well and the risks arising from anesthesia are present. 

What are the post-operative care?

As with any surgical operation after surgery, the recommendations of the doctor must be strictly adhered to in order to prevent the risks such as infection, bleeding and so on. In addition, very heavy exercises should be avoided during the first few weeks after the operation. 

Will there be very visible traces after surgery?

After all surgical operations, a trace remains due to the width of the surgical site. However, these traces lose considerable visibility over time. In Hidradenitis operations, there is a certain amount of trace in the regions where surgery is performed. 

What are the symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa?

The most common symptom is the small pit areas with black spots. Except this; red, sensitive tubers, painful pea-sized tubers are symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa. These are the growing and inflamed tubers that can last for many years under the skin. 

What are the conditions that trigger Hs?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a skin disease caused by blockage and inflammation of the sweat glands under the skin and many factors can trigger this condition. Especially hormone changes, puberty, menstrual period, pregnancy can trigger the condition. External factors such as excessive sweating, obesity, smoking, stress or friction can also worsen the disease. In addition, metabolic problems such as high blood sugar and diabetes can also adversely affect the course of HS. These triggers can both initiate the disease and exacerbate the existing condition.

Does Hidradenitis Suppurativa disappear with laser treatment?

Laser therapy in hidradenitis suppurativa can be a method used to relieve the symptoms of the disease and treat inflamed areas, but it does not provide a complete cure. When combined with other treatment options, laser therapy can help to shrink lesions, reduce pain and improve scars. However, laser treatment is not a permanent solution for HS; it is usually used to control the severity of the disease. A more comprehensive treatment process, such as surgical intervention, may be required for complete recovery.

How should nutrition be in Hidradenitis Suppurativa disease?

Nutrition is a very important factor in the management of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Certain foods, especially processed foods, foods containing excess sugar and fat can increase inflammation. Foods such as milk and dairy products or gluten can worsen symptoms in some people. It is important to maintain a healthy body weight, as obesity can increase the severity of the disease. A balanced diet including vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy fats helps the body to get the nutrients it needs. In particular, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, walnuts) can reduce inflammation.These eating habits can help manage the symptoms of HS.

Who is more common with Hs?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease that usually starts after puberty and is mostly seen in individuals aged 20-40 years. It is more common in women than in men and occurs more frequently in individuals with risk factors such as obesity, smoking and metabolic syndrome. In addition, the risk of the disease increases in individuals with a family history of HS due to genetic predisposition. Hormonal changes, immune system disorders and overactivity of sweat glands may also be effective in the development of the disease.

When is surgical intervention necessary in hidradenitis suppurativa?

Surgical intervention in patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is usually necessary in advanced stages or when other treatments have failed. In severe cases, pain and loss of function may develop due to recurrent abscesses, fistulae and scar tissue. While drainage or small excisions can be performed in localised and resistant lesions, more extensive surgical removal (excision) may be required in cases of widespread and advanced disease. Surgical treatment is recommended especially when biological therapy, antibiotics and other medical approaches are inadequate or when the patient's quality of life is severely impaired.

What is the difference between hidradenitis suppurativa and acne?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) and acne are different diseases, although both are conditions that cause inflammatory lesions on the skin. Acne is usually seen in areas where sebaceous glands are dense, such as the face, back and chest, while HS occurs in areas exposed to friction, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks and under the breasts. Acne is characterised by clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads and pimples, but HS is characterised by deeper, painful nodules, abscesses and scarring fistulas that do not heal over time. HS is a chronic and progressive disease and is usually associated with the immune system, whereas acne is more often linked to hormones and oil production. Furthermore, treatments for acne are usually not effective on HS and HS can leave permanent scars and hardened tissues on the skin in the long term.


How does living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa affect daily life?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that can make daily life physically and psychologically difficult. It can restrict movement and daily activities, as painful nodules and abscesses occur especially in areas subject to friction, such as the armpits, groin and thighs. Even simple actions such as walking, sitting or lifting arms can become painful. Constant discharge, foul odour and irritation require attention to personal hygiene and clothing selection, while the disease can also negatively affect social life and self-confidence. Some people experience loss of productivity at work, while the recurrent nature of the disease can increase psychological stress and anxiety. However, with appropriate treatment, nutrition and skin care, symptoms can be controlled and quality of life can be improved.

In whom is Hidradenitis Suppurativa more common?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease that usually starts after puberty and is mostly seen in individuals aged 20-40 years. It is more common in women than in men and occurs more frequently in individuals with risk factors such as obesity, smoking and metabolic syndrome. In addition, the risk of the disease increases in individuals with a family history of HS due to genetic predisposition. Hormonal changes, immune system disorders and overactivity of sweat glands may also be effective in the development of the disease.

Does playing sports make Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) worse?

Playing sports does not directly worsen hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), but in some cases it can trigger symptoms. Excessive sweating, friction and heating of the skin, especially during intense exercise, can cause HS lesions to enlarge or new lesions to form. However, regular and appropriate light exercise can have positive effects on overall health and help manage the disease by reducing stress. Therefore, precautions can be taken when exercising, such as avoiding prolonged accumulation of sweat on the body, wearing comfortable clothing and keeping the skin clean after exercise.

What are the preventive measures against Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Although complete prevention of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is not possible, there are some preventive measures that can help to avoid a flare-up of the disease. Firstly, comfortable, cotton clothing should be worn to reduce excessive sweating and skin friction. Regular skin cleansing and hygiene can reduce the risk of bacterial infection. However, smoking can also increase the severity of HS, so smoking cessation is recommended. Eating a healthy diet, especially low glycemic index foods, can alleviate the symptoms of the disease. It is also important to employ stress management techniques as stress can lead to exacerbation of HS.

Can Hidradenitis Suppurativa be confused with other skin diseases?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions because there are many skin conditions with similar symptoms. In particular, it can be confused with acne (acne), folliculitis, abscess formations or skin problems caused by infected sweat glands. Although HS is characterized by inflammation and painful lesions, especially under the skin, these symptoms can also occur with some infections or other inflammatory skin diseases. In addition, the scars and scarring left on the skin by HS can be confused with the effects of other skin conditions. Therefore, a thorough evaluation by a dermatologist is important to make an accurate diagnosis.

Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa completely cured?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is usually a chronic skin disease and can be difficult to fully recover from. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and stopping the progression of the disease. However, depending on the course of the disease, some individuals may go into long-term remission (disappearance of symptoms) with treatment, while others may experience persistent flare-ups. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, quality of life can be significantly improved, but a complete cure is usually not possible. Treatment options include topical treatments, antibiotics, biologics and surgery.

What are the stages of HS?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a skin disease usually characterized by inflamed, painful abscesses on the skin. The stages of this disease are usually classified by the Hurley staging system.

The first stage (Hurley stage I) is limited to abscesses or nodules alone, but usually in a single area.

The second stage (Hurley stage II) is characterized by the formation of multiple abscesses and sinuses (canals), affecting larger areas.

The third stage (Hurley stage III) is a widespread and severe stage in which these sinuses merge with each other and cause large lesions. This staging helps to determine the severity of the disease and the need for treatment.

How Can I Differentiate Hidradenitis suppurativa from a Boil?

To distinguish between Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), also known as dog teat disease, and boils, it is important to note some important differences. A boil is a painful, red, pus-filled swelling that usually occurs in a single area, is caused by a bacterial infection and can heal quickly with treatment. Hidradenitis Suppurativa, on the other hand, is a recurrent skin disease that occurs bilaterally and chronically in fold areas such as the armpits and groin. In HS, multiple lesions, fistulas and scars can form close to each other over time, while the boil can usually heal as a single and scarless lesion. If the lesions recur frequently, appear in more than one place and persist for a long time, these symptoms may indicate Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

How is Hidradenitis Suppurativa diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is usually made by a specialist physician based on the clinical findings and history of the patient. The most important criteria for the diagnosis are; recurrent, painful, nodule or abscess-shaped lesions, especially in areas where sweat glands are dense, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts, and the formation of scars, fistulas or scar tissue over time. Although there is no specific laboratory test for diagnosis, auxiliary methods such as blood tests, cultures or biopsy can be used to avoid confusion with infection or other skin diseases. Classifications such as Hurley staging also play an important role in the diagnostic process to assess the severity and spread of the disease.

What are the first symptoms of HS?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) usually first appears as painful, inflamed bumps or lumps on the skin. These bumps are particularly common in areas prone to friction, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks and under the breasts. Initially, these nodules may be small, red and tender, but over time they may enlarge and develop into a purulent abscess. This abscess may burst due to pus accumulating under the skin, causing sores or punctures. In addition, in the later stages of the disease, permanent scars, strip-shaped scars and tunnel-like structures (sinus tracts) may form. The first symptoms are usually painful and early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the spread of infection.

How does living with HS affect social life?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can significantly affect social life, especially in advanced stages. The painful bumps, inflamed sores and scars caused by the disease can have a negative impact on a person's self-confidence and create a sense of embarrassment in public. Due to changes in skin appearance, the desire to participate in social activities may decrease, and sometimes people may isolate themselves due to the physical effects of the disease. Furthermore, the painful nature of HS can make daily activities difficult, leading to loss of performance at work or school. This can have psychological effects such as depression and anxiety. However, with the right treatment and support groups, these effects can be managed and patients can reorganize their social lives.

Does losing weight in Hidradenitis Suppurativa HS affect the course of the disease?

Weight loss can affect the course of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Excess weight can worsen the symptoms of HS by leading to factors such as increased friction and sweating in the body. In addition, obesity can increase inflammation, causing the disease to become more severe. Reducing body weight by losing weight can block such triggers and alleviate the severity of HS. However, weight loss alone is not a cure-all, but can be an important contributing factor in the management of the disease. Nevertheless, it is important to follow the guidance of health professionals during the weight loss process.

Can someone with Hidradenitis Suppurativa go to the sea or pool?

People with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) can generally swim in the sea or pool, but in some cases caution is needed. Getting into the water can increase the risk of infection, especially if there is an active wound, open lesion or inflamed area. Chlorinated pool water can also irritate the skin of some people. Sea water, on the other hand, can help dry and soothe wounds in some patients. Nevertheless, the skin should always be cleaned and kept dry after entering the water. In any case, it is safest to act in consultation with a doctor.

Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa transmitted to the child at birth or during breastfeeding?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is not transmitted during childbirth or through breastfeeding as it is not a contagious disease. The disease may be associated with a genetic predisposition, meaning that individuals with a family history of HS may be more likely to develop the disease, but this does not mean that the disease is passed directly from mother to child. There is also no milk-borne transmission of HS during breastfeeding, and if the mother's active lesions are in an area other than the breast, it does not interfere with breastfeeding. However, if there is a lesion in the breast and there is an open wound or infection, caution should be exercised during breastfeeding and the advice of a physician should be followed.



Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa Linked to Autoimmune Disease?


Although Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is not classified as an autoimmune disease, it is considered a chronic inflammatory disease associated with the immune system. The exact cause of HS is unknown and is characterized by inflammation caused by the immune system overreacting to hair follicles under the skin. Furthermore, individuals with HS are more likely to be associated with autoimmune diseases (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease, spondylitis) than the general population. This suggests that HS may be associated with immune system dysregulation. However, HS is not considered to be a direct autoimmune disease, but rather closer to the group of autoinflammatory diseases.



Can HS be seen in children?


Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) can also occur in children, but tends to occur after puberty. Because the development of HS is often associated with hormonal changes, the disease usually begins after puberty. However, rare cases of childhood onset have been reported. Genetic predisposition, obesity and early-onset hormonal changes may increase the risk of developing HS in childhood. Diagnosis in children can be more difficult because the disease can often be mistaken for acne, hair follicle inflammation or other skin problems. It is therefore important to consult a specialist, especially if painful skin lesions recur and do not heal.

Is there any limitation in armpit or groin movements after the operation?

After Hidradenitis Suppurativa surgery, temporary restriction of movement may occur, especially if the fold areas such as the armpit or groin area have been intervened. This is usually related to the wound healing process. After the surgical procedure, patients are advised not to strain the area too much in the first weeks in order to prevent stretching of the stitches and prevent wound opening. Especially in armpit surgeries, raising the arm upwards, and in groin surgeries, prolonged sitting or spreading the legs wide can be challenging. However, this limitation is usually temporary. With appropriate wound care, it returns to normal over time.



Is postoperative pain expected?

A certain level of pain can be expected after Hidradenitis Suppurativa surgery and is usually part of the normal healing process. The intensity of the pain may vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the area intervened. For example, pain may be more pronounced in cases where large areas are removed or skin grafting is applied. However, this pain is usually controlled with painkillers. The pain, which is more intense in the first few days, usually decreases after the 3rd day. Avoiding sudden or forceful movements that may cause pain and taking wound care as recommended by the doctor both accelerate the healing process and reduce the level of discomfort.



Can medication completely cure HS?

Medication treatments can reduce the severity of the disease and control flare-ups; however, in advanced-stage HS, they are not a definitive solution on their own. These treatments suppress the disease but do not eliminate the diseased tissue.

In which cases is surgical treatment necessary?

If HS is advanced and there are recurrent abscesses, tunnels (sinus tracts), and widespread diseased tissue, surgical treatment is required. In such cases, the goal is the complete removal of the affected areas.

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