Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Welcome to Lockhart Matter Dermatology, your trusted partner in managing complex skin conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Located in the heart of Prosper, Texas, we serve the broader Dallas-Fort Worth region with the most advanced treatment options for HS.

If you’re suffering from HS, don’t hesitate–book a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists and start feeling comfortable in your skin again.

What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin disease characterized by painful nodules and abscesses. It usually develops around hair follicles near sweat glands, particularly in and around the armpits, genitals, groin and inner thighs. The lesions often progress to sinus tracts and fistulas, significantly affecting quality of life.

What Causes Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is thought to be linked to the immune system and hormonal fluctuations. Genetics also play a role, as individuals with a family history of HS are at a higher risk, and the condition has a slightly higher prevalence among women than men.

Risk factors include obesity, smoking and certain health conditions, such as metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions related to hypertension and being overweight. Comorbidities commonly associated with HS are diabetes, Crohn’s disease, thyroid disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome.

While it’s commonly misconstrued that poor hygiene causes HS, it’s crucial to understand that this condition is not a result of poor personal care.

Symptoms

Hidradenitis Suppurativa can manifest in a variety of symptoms. However, it’s important to note that these symptoms may vary significantly in severity from person to person. Common indications of this skin condition include:

• Red, tender bumps, often filled with pus
• Painful, pea-sized lumps or cysts under the skin that persist for months or years
• Blackheads, often appearing in pairs or a “double-barrel” pattern
• Pain and itching in the affected areas
• Abscesses that rupture and leak pus
• Sinus tracts that form tunnels under the skin
• Scarring and skin changes, often thickened, ‘orange-peel’ skin
• Restricted movement due to pain and skin changes

Treatments We Use for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

At Lockhart Matter Dermatology, we provide comprehensive treatment options for HS, carefully considering the severity of your condition, the specific areas affected and your overall health. 

Medications

Biologics: A type of medication used to treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). Biologics target specific proteins that play a role in triggering inflammation that contributes to HS.

Antibiotics: Oral and topical antibiotics, like clindamycin, are often used to manage the bacterial infection associated with HS. They also help prevent further flare-ups, thus reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.

Corticosteroid injections: These anti-inflammatory drugs are injected directly into the lesions to quickly reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Hormonal medications: Certain hormonal therapies such as birth control pills, spironolactone and finasteride may help reduce HS flare-ups.

Retinoids: Retinoids, like isotretinoin and acitretin, are oral medications derived from Vitamin A. They help regulate the growth and regeneration of skin cells, preventing the blockage of hair follicles that leads to HS symptoms.

Surgical procedures

Deroofing: This surgical technique involves cutting open sinus tracts or abscesses and leaving them open to heal. It’s a less invasive procedure that offers relief and promotes healing.

Excision: In severe cases, a wide excision of the affected area may be necessary. This process involves the complete removal of the affected skin and underlying tissue, helping to eliminate recurring HS in that area.

Laser hair removal

This treatment uses laser light to destroy hair follicles in affected areas. By preventing clogging that triggers HS flares, laser hair removal offers a longer-term solution compared to regular shaving, reducing the frequency and severity of HS symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

Weight loss and diet: Obesity is a significant risk factor for HS. Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet can help reduce the prevalence of HS symptoms.

Loose-fitting clothes: Wearing loose-fitting clothes reduces friction on the skin, thus decreasing HS flare-ups. This is particularly beneficial for areas with a high prevalence of sweat glands like the armpits and groin.

Quit smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for HS, as nicotine may increase follicular plugging leading to infection. Quitting can contribute significantly to managing and reducing HS symptoms.

Our team is committed to providing personalized treatment plans for our patients suffering from hidradenitis suppurativa. Our approach is comprehensive, combining medication, potential surgical interventions and lifestyle changes to effectively manage this chronic skin condition. We also encourage our clients to reach out to support groups if they so desire.

What to Expect from Your HS Consultation

Your journey towards managing hidradenitis suppurativa begins with a comprehensive consultation at Lockhart Matter Dermatology. During this pivotal meeting, you will be attended by one of our dedicated professionals—be it our board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Susanne Lockhart, Dr. Christie Matter, and Dr. Kyle Owens.

Each one is committed to thoroughly understanding your specific condition, symptoms, and medical history. This meticulous, patient-focused approach ensures that we deliver treatment plans that are as unique and effective as the individuals we serve.

Your provider will conduct a comprehensive examination of the affected areas, assessing the extent of your HS and the impact on your quality of life. If you’ve been previously diagnosed, they’ll consider your prior treatments, their effectiveness and any side effects you may have experienced.

You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss the range of potential treatments, from medications to surgical procedures. We understand that every patient’s journey with HS is unique, and we’ll collaborate with you to determine the most suitable management plan.

Additionally, our experts will provide guidance on lifestyle adjustments, such as diet and clothing choices, that can help manage HS symptoms, as well as good wound care practices. This visit is also the perfect time to address all your questions and concerns. Our goal is to make sure you feel informed, comfortable and prepared for the path ahead.

At Lockhart Matter Dermatology in Prosper, Texas, we’re committed to providing you with the care and support you need to manage HS effectively.

Related Treatments

Here at Lockhart Matter Dermatology, we understand that skin health requires a comprehensive approach. As such, we offer a variety of services that complement our hidradenitis suppurativa treatments, targeting other skin concerns to provide a full spectrum of care.

• Acne Treatments: We offer a comprehensive suite of acne treatments, encompassing chemical peels, light therapy, and medication among others. Chemical peels exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and unclogging pores, while light therapy targets acne-causing bacteria. Prescribed medications, both topical and oral, help reduce inflammation and control oil production. Our personalized approach ensures we treat not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes of acne.
• Laser Hair Removal: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser technology to reduce hair growth. It works by targeting hair follicles with light energy, damaging the follicle to inhibit future growth. It can be used to manage conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, where excess hair can exacerbate symptoms, or for cosmetic reasons.
• Skin Cancer Screening: This is a preventative healthcare measure where a dermatologist checks the skin for signs of skin cancer. It’s an essential part of maintaining skin health, particularly for patients with a history of sun exposure or a family history of skin cancer. Regular screenings can lead to early detection and treatment, significantly improving outcomes.

FAQs

Is there a cure for hidradenitis suppurativa?

While there is currently no definitive cure for HS, various treatments can manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups, improving the quality of life for those affected.

Will hidradenitis suppurativa go away on its own?

HS is a chronic condition, meaning it is long-lasting and often lifelong. While symptoms may occasionally lessen or go into temporary remission on their own, HS typically does not go away without treatment. Regular management is crucial to reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Can hidradenitis suppurativa lead to other health complications?

Yes, HS can lead to several health complications if left untreated. These can include painful abscesses and sinus tracts, severe scarring, and impact on mental health due to chronic pain and appearance concerns. In rare cases, untreated severe hidradenitis suppurativa can lead to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.