Hidradenitis suppurativa in children and adolescents

Hidradenitis suppurativa in children and adolescents share similar clinical features and distribution of lesions as in adult patients, causing significant physical and psychologic burdens. The disease is associated with several comorbidities; therefore, a diagnostic workup should include screening for metabolic, psychiatric, autoimmune, and hyperandrogenic comorbidities. The goal of the treatment is to alleviate pain, minimize inflammation and scarring, and prevent disease progression. There are currently no hidradenitis suppurativa treatment guidelines for children and adolescents, and the treatment primarily relies on the management of hidradenitis suppurativa in adults. We summarize the current information about the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, comorbidities, diagnostic workup, and treatment options for children and adolescents afflicted with hidradenitis suppurativa.