Novel therapeutic approaches and targets for treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, recurrent and disabling inflammatory skin condition, clinically characterized by nodules, bullae, abscesses, fistulae, and draining sinus tracts mainly located in axillae, inguinal folds, inframammary region and buttocks, often leading to pain, scarring, disfigurement and decreased quality of life. Due to its complex nature, with still no completely elucidated etiology and pathogenesis, the management of HS can be challenging. In fact, many patients do not respond to the traditionally available systemic treatments, including anti-inflammatories, antibiotics and surgery. Research has provided new insights into the mechanisms of HS, mainly investigating on the inflammatory cytokine pathways underlying the disease.