Dermatology · Skin health
Hidradenitis suppurativa
Understand recurring nodules, scarring and the value of early care.
Editorial publication · Medical review pending.
Understand
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a long-term inflammatory follicular disease in skin folds.
Possible symptoms
Painful nodules, abscesses, drainage, tunnels and scars recur mainly in armpits and groin.
Causes and associated factors
The exact cause is unknown; follicular blockage, immunity, heredity, smoking and weight may contribute.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis relies on typical lesions, their location and recurrence.
Tests
There is no confirmatory test; a swab may assess an associated infection.
Course of the condition
Disease flares can spread or scar without appropriate management.
Care options
Local care, anti-inflammatory medicines or antibiotics and sometimes surgery are tailored to stage.
When to consult
Seek early advice for repeated painful, draining or scarring lumps in skin folds.
Urgent help
Fever, spreading redness, rapidly increasing pain or feeling unwell needs urgent advice.
Questions for your doctor
- How will the diagnosis be confirmed?
- How severe or extensive is it in my case?
- Which options, limits and side effects should we compare?
- What follow-up and skin protection should I plan?
- Which changes should prompt an earlier review?
Continue reading
A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.
Our articles
Discover all Elysium Editions →Sources
- NHS — Hidradenitis suppurativa
Accessed on September 15, 2026