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Hidradenitis Suppurativa

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Severe Skin Diseases in Children

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS, acne inversa) is a chronic and recurrent disease affecting the apocrine-bearing areas of skin. Although previously thought to arise from inflammation of the apocrine glands, evidence now points to follicular occlusion as the primary event, though the disease has distinct differences from acne vulgaris where occlusion also plays a role. Hidradenitis suppurativa varies in severity, ranging from occasional isolated inflammatory nodules to numerous painful inflammatory nodules with draining ulcers, sinus tracts, and scarring. While there is no cure for hidradenitis suppurativa, nor a standard protocol for treatment, therapy can help control the disease. Treatment options including oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, immunosuppressants, biologics, and surgery are reviewed. In addition to medical and surgical therapy, supporting the psychosocial well-being of HS patients, especially adolescents, is very important, and HS support groups or referral for psychological evaluation can be helpful.

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Abbreviations

FDA:

Food and Drug Administration

HS:

Hidradenitis suppurativa

Kg:

Kilogram

Mg:

Milligram

Nd:YAG:

Neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet

PUVA:

Psoralen plus ultraviolet A

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Jen, M., Chang, M.W. (2014). Hidradenitis Suppurativa. In: Tom, W. (eds) Severe Skin Diseases in Children. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-39532-1_4

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