The psychosocial effects of hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic debilitating skin disease with a tremendous impact on patients' quality of life. Despite the development of new treatment modalities, consistent remission rates are still difficult and sometimes impossible to achieve. Delayed diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and lack of access to adequate medical care are important issues. The poor quality of life of hidradenitis suppurativa patients, already proven in many studies, is most strongly influenced by physical factors along with depression and anxiety, negative body image, low self-esteem, sexual dysfunction, and impairment of ability to work. Targeting these psychosocial aspects has great potential to improve care for hidradenitis suppurativa patients. Only a holistic approach can lead to significant improvement, allowing people with hidradenitis suppurativa to live more fulfilled lives.