From the Guidelines
Dermatologists are the primary medical specialists who diagnose and treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). This chronic inflammatory skin condition affects hair follicles in areas with apocrine sweat glands, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. For comprehensive care, patients may be referred to other specialists depending on the severity and complications, including surgeons for advanced cases requiring excision, infectious disease specialists for recurrent infections, or rheumatologists if there are associated inflammatory conditions.
Key Considerations
- The diagnosis of HS should be made by a dermatologist or other healthcare professional with expert knowledge in HS, as stated in the European guidelines for hidradenitis suppurativa 1.
- Treatment typically begins with topical antibiotics like clindamycin, progressing to oral antibiotics such as tetracycline for more persistent cases, as recommended in the evidence-based approach to the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa 1.
- For moderate to severe HS, biologics like adalimumab may be prescribed, as suggested in the british association of dermatologists guidelines for the management of hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inversa) 2018 1.
- Dermatologists also recommend lifestyle modifications including weight management, smoking cessation, and wearing loose clothing to reduce friction, as part of a holistic approach to the treatment of HS 1.
- Early consultation with a dermatologist is crucial as they can provide personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms and prevent disease progression, taking into account the patient's quality of life and disease severity scores, such as the Hurley staging system and the DLQI 1.
From the Research
Medical Specialty for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
- The medical specialty that specializes in Hidradenitis Suppurativa is dermatology, as most directors of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Specialty Clinics (HSSCs) are dermatologists 2.
- Dermatologists play a crucial role in the management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of complications 3, 4.
- Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a complex disease that requires specialized care, and dermatologists are often involved in research and clinical trials for new treatments 2.
Treatment and Management
- Current treatment options for Hidradenitis Suppurativa include drug therapy, combined drug and surgical therapy, or surgery alone, depending on the stage of the disease 3.
- Dermatologists may prescribe antibiotics, such as clindamycin and rifampicin, to treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa, and these combination therapies have shown efficacy in reducing disease severity and improving quality of life 5, 6.
- Early intervention and an interdisciplinary approach are essential for effective management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, and dermatologists often work with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care 3, 4.