HIDRADENITIS SUPPURATIVA: DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC UPDATES IN A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), or inverse acne, is a chronic, progressive, debilitating, and recurrent inflammatory skin condition. It manifests as nodules, abscesses, and fistulas associated with pain and discomfort. The disease affects approximately 1% of the world's population, usually occurring after puberty, with an average age of onset in the second or third decades of life, and with a slight predominance in females. This research aims to review the scientific literature on the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, focusing on the most recent approaches and challenges faced in clinical practice. To achieve the purpose of this project, data collection was carried out by searching for articles indexed in the electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, and LILACS, considering works published in full and free of charge between 2020 and 2025, in English or Portuguese, that addressed the diagnosis and treatment of HS. This narrative review is expected to contribute to the dissemination and deepening of knowledge about hidradenitis suppurativa, serving as an educational tool for students and healthcare professionals.