Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is often missed for years. Research has grown fast, and several kinds of medicine are now being studied.
What research in this area looks at
Hidradenitis suppurativa, often shortened to HS, causes painful lumps and abscesses in places where skin rubs together, such as the armpits and groin. It comes and goes, can leave tunnels and scars under the skin, and is not caused by poor hygiene.
Studies test injected medicines that block parts of the immune system, tablets, surgery and laser treatment, and ways to manage pain and flares. Many measure change by counting lumps at each visit.
Kinds of study you will come across
Listings in this area usually fall into one of these. A single study can sit in more than one.
Injected medicine
Compare an injection given every few weeks with placebo.
Tablet studies
Test medicines taken by mouth that calm inflammation.
Procedures
Look at surgery or laser to remove tunnels under the skin.
Living with HS
Study pain, sleep, work and mood, and what helps.
What visits can include
- A count of lumps, abscesses and tunnels at each visit
- Photographs of affected areas, taken privately
- Injections at the clinic or at home after training
- A diary of pain and flares between visits
- Blood tests, and a tuberculosis test for some medicines
What to have ready before you call
- When HS was diagnosed and who diagnosed it
- The treatments you have tried, including antibiotics
- Any surgery you have had for HS
- A rough idea of how often you flare
Questions worth asking a study team
Write them down before the first call. The team has heard each one many times and expects them.
Can I keep using antibiotics or dressings during the study?
Who sees the photographs, and how are they stored?
What happens if I flare badly between visits?
Could I carry on the treatment once the study ends?
Only the study team can say whether a study would take you. Talk to your own doctor before deciding. In an emergency, call 911.
Stay updated on hidradenitis suppurativa research
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