Hidradenitis Suppurativa - Associated Conditions

Arthritis is known to cause pain and inflammation in the joints, typically worsening with age.³ It has been reported that people living with HS are more likely to have arthritis than the general population.^3,4

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes irritation of the digestive, or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It most commonly affects the last section of the small intestine (ileum) or the large intestine (colon), but may occur anywhere from the mouth to the end of the rectum. Inflammation can damage sections of the GI tract over time, resulting in additional complications, such as narrowing of the colon.⁵

Nearly one-fifth of patients living with HS may be affected by Crohn’s disease.^1,2

HS has been shown to have a negative effect on the quality of life for people with this disease. Evidence suggests that people with HS may also experience depression. Depression is a medical condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness, loss of interest and hopelessness. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.^1,6-9

People with HS have a higher risk of cancer compared to the general population. Specific cancers reported include cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (abnormal cell growth in skin’s upper layers¹⁰), buccal cancer (cancer of the lining of the cheeks & back of teeth¹¹) and hepatocellular cancer (liver cancer¹²).¹

Characteristics of severe acne comprise mainly deeply embedded solid nodules, inflammation and extensive skin damage. Affected areas may become infected, which may lead to scarring if not treated.^13,14

Severe acne is associated with hidradenitis suppurativa, though there is the possibility of misdiagnosis of acne in people living with HS.¹

Additionally, HS can impact the quality of life of people living with this disease.¹ If you are living with any of these associated conditions, your dermatologist or health care provider may refer you to another specialist.