Preoperative imaging assessment of hidradenitis suppurativa

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by painful deep subcutaneous nodules with phlogistic signs, which are initially hard and progress to have a soft consistency. It occurs in 1-4% of the world population. Etiology of HS is still poorly understood and is suggested to occur due to occlusion of the apocrine duct of the hair follicles by triggering factors such as friction of the adipose tissue and poor hygiene, among others. Diagnosis is eminently clinical, through the identification of typical recurrent lesions that include nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, or scars. There are no pathognomonic tests used to confirm its presence. Progression is variable and difficult to manage, which can be done with topical or systemic therapy or surgical excision. This work reviews the imaging assessment of HS and shows images of a case assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Imaging assessment, although not specific enough for a diagnosis, is useful to determine the extent of the disease and to exclude differential diagnoses. Moreover, magnetic resonance imaging has an important role in the assessment of anogenital lesions and a potential to reduce recurrences.

Keywords

• hidradenitis suppurativa
• magnetic resonance imaging
• reconstructive surgical procedures
• ultrasonography
• abscess