Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting areas of the body with apocrine glands (particular types of sweat glands). This condition can affect men, but is more common amongst women and tends to start after puberty.
The main areas affected are the armpits, groin and under the breasts. Hidradenitis Suppurativa may start with pimples and progress to nodules (lumps) and boils (abscesses) under the skin. When these become connected together, tunnels under the skin (sinus tracts) may form. Scarring can occur when these tracts try to heal.
The cause of Hidradenitis Suppurativa is not completely clear. Risk factors for the development of HS include:
- Raised hormone levels. We do not know exactly how hormones affect HS, but androgen levels (testosterone) rise after puberty, when people are more susceptible to this condition.
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Other conditions such as acne and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
