If your acne does not go away, the reason may be HS disease! Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease that occurs where the hair and sweat glands are located. If HS disease is not diagnosed early, acne turns into painful, tender swellings and abscesses with discharge in the armpits, groin, hips and under the breasts. Prof. Dr. Deniz Demirseren, Department of Dermatology and Venereal Diseases, Ankara City Hospital, University of Health Sciences made important statements about this disease, which significantly reduces the quality of life.
“The diagnosis of HS can be delayed for an average of 10 years”
Stating that the distribution of HS lesions varies according to gender, Prof. Dr. Demirseren added, “Generally, lesions on the genital area and legs are more common in women.” Prof. Dr. Deniz Demirseren said, “The lesions caused by HS negatively affect the lives of patients. Painful and discharged lesions of patients can cause loss of work force and psychological problems. Patients do not go to the doctor because they are afraid, or they can apply to branches other than dermatology. For this reason, the diagnosis of HS can be delayed for an average of 10 years.”
“HS can occur as a result of hereditary (genetic) predisposition”
Underlining that familial HS predisposition may increase the risk of disease, Prof. Dr. Deniz Demirseren said, “I learned that the brother and twin children of a mother who consulted me with HS symptoms also had similar symptoms. Upon this, these patients who were diagnosed with HS were also treated.” Emphasizing that HS disease can have periods of exacerbation and remission, and that with the right treatments, significant improvements can be observed in the quality of life of patients, Prof. Dr. Demirseren stated that being overweight and smoking may exacerbate the disease.
“HS patients should definitely consult a dermatologist”
Noting that the patients should observe the areas where the swelling occurs very well, Prof. Dr. Demirseren emphasized that if swelling occurs two or more times in the armpits, groin, hips and under the breasts in the last 6 months, they should definitely consult a dermatologist.