Prevalence, Age of Onset, Age at Diagnosis, and Family History of Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Pediatric Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by recurrent nodules and abscesses in intertriginous areas, ultimately resulting in scarring and formation of sinus tracts. HS significantly impacts quality of life and can also affect pediatric populations. We aimed to determine the prevalence, family history, age of onset, and age at diagnosis of HS in pediatric populations. Methods: A random-effects meta-analysis of observational studies was conducted following MOOSE guidelines. Five databases were searched through May 2024. Results: Thirty seven observational studies were included, representing 6941 patients from 13 countries. The weighted mean age was 14.7 years (range: 4–18). Ethnoracial distribution included White (36.5%), Black (38.3%), Hispanic (13.9%), Asian (0.8%), Indigenous (0.2%), Middle Eastern (0.7%), multiracial (1.2%), and unspecified populations (8.4%). Among studies reporting severity, 42.5% had Hurley Stage I, 46.3% Stage II, and 11.2% Stage III. The prevalence of HS in pediatric populations was 0.03% (95% CI [0.0001, 0.0005]), with 38% of patients having a family history of HS (95% CI [0.30, 0.45]). Pediatric-onset HS predominantly affects females (78%, 95% CI [0.76, 0.80]). The average age of onset of HS in pediatric populations was 11.3 years (95% CI [10.15, 12.39]), but diagnosis typically occurred at 14.0 years (95% CI [12.65, 15.28]), indicating a delay in diagnosis. Female predominance of HS was associated with earlier age of onset and age at diagnosis, while no significant correlations between family history, age of onset, or age at diagnosis were identified. Conclusion: This study highlights the characteristics of pediatric-onset HS and emphasizes the need for earlier detection to expedite diagnosis and initiation of treatment.