Hidradenitis suppurativa is associated with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism: a large-scale population-based study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting apocrine gland areas.
• Numerous comorbidities are associated with HS, but its link to thyroid disorders remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) and thyroid disorders.
• To determine if HS is independently linked to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Main Methods:

• A large-scale, population-based, cross-sectional study in Israel.
• Matched 4,191 HS patients with 20,941 healthy controls using ICD-9 codes.
• Employed logistic regression to analyze associations, controlling for covariates like smoking status.

Main Results:

• HS patients showed significantly higher odds of hypothyroidism (OR 2.91) and hyperthyroidism (OR 2.25).
• The association between HS and hypothyroidism was consistent across demographics and unaffected by smoking.
• The HS-hyperthyroidism link was significant only in females, middle-aged individuals, and non-smokers.

Conclusions:

• Hidradenitis suppurativa is independently associated with hypothyroidism.
• The association of HS with hyperthyroidism is subgroup-specific and influenced by smoking.
• Findings highlight the importance of considering thyroid health in HS patients, especially non-smokers.