Quality of life in hidradenitis suppurativa

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronically relapsing skin disorder characterized by recurring inflammatory lesions leading to fistulae and sclerosis of apocrine-gland-bearing areas [3]. One or several areas are affected, including the perianal region, groin, pubis, scrotum, buttocks, inner thighs, and areola. The disease leads to painful nodules and malodorous discharge and the available treatments are only partially effective and unsatisfactory. Affected patients suffer a significant morbidity and it is self-evident that HS has a psychological impact especially upon quality of life (QoL) and mental health. In this chapter we will review these two aspects.