Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is one of the most difficult-to-treat, chronic inflammatory diseases in dermatology, particularly for patients with skin of color. At Skin of Color Update, Tiffany Mayo, MD, led a case-based discussion highlighting earlier recognition, holistic management, and existing and emerging therapies for HS. She emphasized a simple, highly sensitive screening question to reduce diagnostic delays, which currently average 7–10 years, and reviewed the complex immunologic pathogenesis and systemic comorbidities associated with HS.
This session summary outlines practical takeaways, including the importance of reducing patient stigma by reframing misconceptions about causation, while setting realistic expectations — HS is a chronic, noninfectious disease requiring long-term management. Updated U.S. and European guidelines now support a structured, severity-based approach to treatment, incorporating both flare management and maintenance care. Dr. Mayo’s session emphasized holistic, patient-centered care and emerging therapies that can help reduce delays and improve outcomes.
