What Is the Hurley System?
A number of studies have attempted to establish how common the disease is using a variety of methods.
In stages II and III of the disease, sinus tracts may appear.
Verywell / Dennis Madamba
These are tunnel-like cavities that form under the skin and can interconnect.
The tunnels often cause pain and scarring.
Abscesses may also form in stages II and III of the disease.
An abscess is a larger lump that holds pus.
In hidradenitis suppurativa, the abscesses may join together and be very painful.
They may break open and leak pus, blood, and fluid.
These sores can stain clothes and also cause a foul smell.
The constant bursting-then-healing of abscesses can cause permanent scarring.
Treatment by HS Stage
Treatment is necessary to try and prevent hidradenitis suppurativa from progressing.
Treatment options vary based on the stage of the disease.
Treatments include medication, procedures or surgeries, skin care, and pain management.
These may be given if earlier treatment options have been unsuccessful.
Talking with a counselor or joining a support group may help.
In the early stages, there may only be one or two lumps.
Fortunately, treatment options are available for symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hidradenitis suppurativa can progress over time.
The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inversa) remains unknown.
But researchers believe it may be related to hair follicles becoming clogged and infected with bacteria.
2018;154(3):330-335. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.5890
DermNet NZ.Hidradenitis suppurativa.
2018;13(7):e0200683.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0200683
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Hidradenitis suppurativa: signs and symptoms.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Hidradenitis suppurativa: diagnosis and treatment.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Hidradenitis suppurativa: self-care.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Hidradenitis suppurativa: causes.
