Though the exact causes of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are unclear, research suggests that the root of HS lies in specific defects within hair follicles.1,2
Other recent research has hypothesised that inflamed lesions associated with HS tend to develop when there is a blockage of hair follicles and inflammation of sweat glands in the apocrine family, which are found in areas such as the armpits and groin.3,4 It is thought that this blockage can occur when sweat becomes trapped inside sweat gland tubes, which eventually swell up and burst or may form abscesses and become severely inflamed.5
Despite the lack of a definitive cause, the medical community agrees that HS is not infectious, nor is it caused by an infection or connected to poor hygiene (a common misconception about the genesis of HS).2,5
The following are potential factors associated with HS:2-5
Some of these risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, hormonal changes, and excessive perspiration may actually worsen symptoms.2-5
AU-HUM-210054 August 2022.