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Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic disorder of the terminal follicular epithelium in the apocrine gland-bearing skin that causes disabling pain.1 Here, we provide insights into the pathophysiology of HS and the patient journey.

Skin microscopy and 3D illustration of skin layers with follicular inflammation, behind a black woman and a screen depicting Th17.
An illustration depicting interactions between multiple cytokines, dendritic cells, and CD4 T cells in hidradenitis suppurativa pathophysiology.

HS Pathophysiology

Here, we provide insights on IL-17, a key cytokine in the progression of HS, with associated follicular inflammatory processes that lead to the formation of painful nodules, abscesses, and draining sinus tracts.2,3

A black woman using a singing bowl and looking into it with deep concentration.

Patient Journey

HS is one of the most distressing dermatologic conditions, with an average 7-year delay in diagnosis and significant impact on quality of life.4 Here, we provide a direct account of a patient’s HS disease journey.

Explore additional HS information resources