Hidradenitis is a an acne like condition that usually affects the armpits and groinIt is characterized by multiple, recurrent abscesses, boils or nodules that usually result in scarringApplying pressure on one area may produce drainage at a different siteThe name comes from "suppurate," which means "to create pus"

One third of patients with HS have a family member who also have HS.

At times, bacteria can cause HS to flare up.  Other times, flares start for no reason. Current data suggests that this condition starts with inflammation within the pore. The pore ruptures, leading to the development of tunnels and pockets of purulent drainage beneath the skin. Healing from these lesions may form cords or bands of scarring as the body tries to build a "wall" around the regions of inflammation.

Frequently hidradenitis may be seen in an individual that has also experienced significant acne.  Less commonly, there may be boils present within the scalp, or a boil-like lesion present at the base of the spine referred to as a pilonidal cyst.In some patients, worsening with hormonal cycling has occurred. However hormone levels are generally normal. Patients who are overweight or of African American heritage may be more severely affected. Cancerous change within the skin lesions has been reported but is quite rare. It is not associated with internal cancers.

Hidradenitis may be divided into early and late stages. In the early phase of hidradenitis, patients may experience individual tender nodules, usually without communication with other pores. With time, many persons will experience tunneling with multiple tender, red nodules connecting below the skin surface. The drainage of pus from either solitary or multiple lesions is characteristic. Tenderness and a foul odor are very common.

Topical antibiotics to prevent flaresOral antibioticsSteroid injectionsIsotretinoin/AccutaneHumira or "Biologic" therapy, is the only FDA approved therapy currently available in the United States for HS