Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Maternal and Offspring Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Dermatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition impacting reproductive-aged individuals.
• The effects of HS on maternal and offspring health outcomes are not well understood.
• HS is associated with significant morbidity in affected individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between maternal HS and pregnancy outcomes.
• To assess the long-term maternal and child morbidity associated with HS.
• To determine the impact of HS on hospitalization risks for mothers and offspring.

Main Methods:

• A population-based longitudinal cohort study was conducted in Quebec, Canada, from 2006 to 2022.
• The study included over 1.3 million deliveries, with a focus on 1332 mothers diagnosed with HS.
• Adjusted log-binomial and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to analyze outcomes.

Main Results:

• Maternal HS was linked to increased risks of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (RR 1.55), gestational diabetes (RR 1.61), and severe maternal morbidity (RR 1.38).
• Neonates born to mothers with HS had higher risks of preterm birth (RR 1.28) and birth defects (RR 1.29).
• Long-term follow-up revealed a significantly higher risk of maternal hospitalization (RR 2.29) and childhood hospitalization (RR 1.31) for mothers with HS.

Conclusions:

• Hidradenitis suppurativa is associated with adverse maternal and offspring outcomes during pregnancy and in the long term.
• The findings highlight the need for comprehensive care for pregnant individuals with HS.
• Early identification and management of HS are crucial for mitigating adverse health consequences.