An Update on Medical Treatment Options for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The document from 2015 provides an overview of medical treatments for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a chronic skin condition. It discusses the use of topical treatments like clindamycin lotion and resorcinol cream for mild cases, and systemic antibiotics, particularly tetracyclines and a combination of clindamycin and rifampicin, for more severe cases. The document notes high recurrence rates after discontinuation of antibiotics. Retinoids are mentioned as a long-term treatment option, with caution due to teratogenicity. Biologics such as infliximab and adalimumab are considered for refractory cases. The document also touches on the potential of new treatments targeting IL-17 and IL-23, the importance of pain management, and lifestyle changes like weight loss and smoking cessation. It emphasizes the need for individualized treatment plans and acknowledges the variability in treatment responses.