Pathogenesis, clinical features and management of hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition involving the apocrine glandular zones. Affected patients may present with acute abscesses, but the condition often progresses to a chronic state with persistent pain, sepsis, sinus tract and fistula formation, purulent discharge and dermal scarring. Treatment of patients with severe disease can be difficult and may require complex surgical intervention. This review encompasses the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and management options for patients with hidradenitis suppurativa.