Symptoms and Staging
| Hurley Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Single or multiple abscesses without scarring or tunnels |
| Stage 2 | Recurrent abscesses with tunnel formation and scarring, separated lesions |
| Stage 3 | Multiple interconnected tunnels and abscesses across an entire area |
Treatment by Severity
| Stage | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Mild | Topical/oral antibiotics, weight management, smoking cessation |
| Moderate | Long-term antibiotics, hormonal treatments, biologics (adalimumab) |
| Severe | Biologics, surgical excision of affected areas |
Smoking Cessation Is CrucialSmoking is strongly linked to hidradenitis suppurativa severity and progression — quitting smoking is one of the most impactful things a patient can do to improve their condition.
Is hidradenitis suppurativa contagious?
No — it's not an infection that can be spread to others, though secondary bacterial infection of the lesions can occur.
Is hidradenitis suppurativa the same as acne?
No — though related in some ways, HS is a distinct chronic inflammatory condition affecting hair follicles in specific body areas, requiring different treatment approaches than typical acne.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.