The Role of Endocrinologic Comorbidities in the Pathophysiology and the Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Abstract

As with many skin conditions in dermatology, Hidradenitis Suppurativa proves itself to be a multifactorial disease. Although the pathophysiology of Hidradenitis has yet to be fully understood, this article confirms the hypothesis that endocrinologic comorbidities play a role in the pathophysiology and severity of Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Conditions such as Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome, Thyroid diseases, androgen dysregulations as well as environmental factors have shown to influence disease activity of Hidradenitis Suppurativa. This literature review shows that most dominantly insulin resistance, androgen dysregulation and environmental factors influence the pathophysiology of HS. Furthermore, this article elaborates on the evidence based importance of lifestyle modifications in Hidradenitis Suppurativa patients. Regarding the treatment options of Hidradenitis Suppurativa this article discusses the efficacy of various approaches such as immunomodulatory drugs as well as other systemic and topical treatments. In conclusion, the most important information gathered in this research is highlighted.