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Hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses and sometimes tunnels beneath the skin, often in the armpits, groin, buttocks or under the breasts. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious. Early recognition, good wound care and suitable treatment can help limit pain, scarring and flare-ups.

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  • Hidradenitis suppurativa is an inflammatory skin condition with recurring painful lumps, abscesses and sometimes leaking tunnels beneath the skin. These mainly occur in skin folds where there is both rubbing and moisture.
  • The condition is not caused by poor washing. It is not contagious either. This matters because many people feel ashamed or blame themselves without reason.
  • Without suitable care, scars, tunnels beneath the skin and flare-ups that become increasingly difficult to treat can develop. Early recognition often makes a big difference to pain, scarring and quality of life.
  • Squeezing, piercing or opening the lumps yourself increases the chance of more inflammation, wound damage and scarring. Gentle care and medical assessment are safer.

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