Hidradenitis Suppurativa Resource Center
Health ConditionsSkin ConditionsHidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

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Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition characterized by small, painful lumps under the skin, typically in the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. You might experience recurring boils, abscesses, and scarring. Treatment often involves medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes, such as weight management and smoking cessation, to manage symptoms and prevent progression.

FAQ

What causes hidradenitis suppurativa?

The exact cause is unknown, but it involves blocked hair follicles and inflammation.

No, it's not contagious.

Hidradenitis suppurativa ranges in severity from mild to severe.

Some people report symptom improvement with dietary changes.

Options include antibiotics, biologics, and surgical procedures.

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Jacquelyn Dosal

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD

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Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at The Dermatology House in Park City, Utah. Her areas of expertise include acne, rosacea, integrative treatments...

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Susan Bard, MD

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Susan Bard, MD, is a clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine and an adjunct clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Mount Sin...

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Mohiba Tareen, MD

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Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Mohiba Tareen, MD, is a nationally acclaimed board-certified dermatologist. She practices medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology at her Minnesota medical practice, Tareen Derm...

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Amy Spizuoco, DO

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Amy Spizuoco, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist. Dr. Spizuoco has been practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, as well as dermatopatholo...

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Lydia J. Johnson, MD

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Member of American College of Lifestyle Medicine
Lydia Johnson, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. Her medical career of more than 20 years has included work in private practice and in an academic medical center, as well as ...
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Ross Radusky, MD

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Ross Radusky, MD, is a practicing board-certified dermatologist at the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center in Dallas. Originally from New York City, he graduated summa cum la...

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Blair Murphy-Rose, MD

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Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the founder of Skincare Junkie. She is an accomplished cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist,...

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Resources
  1. Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Mayo Clinic. March 21, 2025.

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