F1000Research (Jul 2017)

Hidradenitis suppurativa: an update on connecting the tracts [version 1; referees: 3 approved]

  • Mallory K Smith,
  • Cynthia L Nicholson,
  • Angela Parks-Miller,
  • Iltefat H Hamzavi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.11337.1
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6

Abstract

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Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating disease involving abscesses, sinus tracts, and inflammation classically affecting the axilla, groin, and/or anogenital region. Although the disease pathogenesis is not fully understood, recent advances suggest that HS pathology runs much deeper than the cutaneous manifestations. It is now believed that HS is a systemic inflammatory disease that gives rise to the characteristic cutaneous manifestations. This disease is problematic for both patients and physicians to manage because of a variety of diagnostic and management difficulties. This article seeks to provide updates on the current understanding of HS to increase awareness and improve management.

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