Hidradenitis suppurativa is characterized by:[3]
Hidradenitis suppurativa commonly occurs in areas near hair follicles where there are many oil and sweat glands; places like the armpit, groin and anal area. It can also occur in areas where skin rubs together, including the inner thighs, under the breasts, and between the buttocks.[3][4]
This condition most often presents after puberty and can persist for years, worsening over time. Three stages of disease have been described which progress from single or localized abscesses accompanied by itching or discomfort, to recurrent abscesses that occur in multiple locations, to widespread severe disease that can restrict movement, obstruct lymph drainage and lead to social isolation.[4][1]
The Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) provides the following list of features that have been reported in people with this condition. Much of the information in the HPO comes from Orphanet, a European rare disease database. If available, the list includes a rough estimate of how common a feature is (its frequency). Frequencies are based on a specific study and may not be representative of all studies. You can use the MedlinePlus Medical Dictionary for definitions of the terms below.
| Signs and Symptoms | Approximate number of patients (when available) |
| Recurrent cutaneous abscess formation | 90% |
| Abnormality of temperature regulation | 50% |
| Acne | 50% |
| Atypical scarring of skin | 50% |
| Pruritus | 50% |
| Arthritis | 7.5% |
| Hyperhidrosis | 7.5% |
| Intestinal fistula | 7.5% |
| Lymphedema | 7.5% |
| Microcytic anemia | 7.5% |
| Neoplasm of the skin | 7.5% |
| Weight loss | 7.5% |
| Acne inversa | - |
| Autosomal dominant inheritance | - |
Making a diagnosis for a genetic or rare disease can often be challenging. Healthcare professionals typically look at a person’s medical history, symptoms, physical exam, and laboratory test results in order to make a diagnosis. The following resources provide information relating to diagnosis and testing for this condition. If you have questions about getting a diagnosis, you should contact a healthcare professional.
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Is weight loss helpful in managing hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms? See answer
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