Test your knowledge of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), including chronic flares, diagnostic delays, misdiagnosis, and signs of persistent or uncontrolled disease.
6 questions
Which feature best reflects the chronic, recurring nature of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?
Correct Answer: B
HS is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by recurrent painful nodules, abscesses, and draining tunnels in intertriginous areas, including the axillae, groin, perineal, and inframammary regions. Recurrence over months to years is a defining diagnostic feature.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmedt.2024.1200400/full https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39708369/ https://academic.oup.com/bjd/article/192/5/845/7930292 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0190962225032359 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)02475-9/fulltext
A patient presents with recurrent painful nodules and sinus tracts in the axilla and groin. Which diagnosis is most consistent with these findings?
Correct Answer: C
HS typically presents with deep nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts in intertriginous areas, distinguishing it from other dermatologic conditions.
Diagnostic delay in HS is commonly reported. What is the approximate average delay from symptom onset to diagnosis?
HS is frequently associated with diagnostic delays of approximately 7–10 years, often due to misdiagnosis and lack of specific diagnostic tests.
Which factor most commonly contributes to misdiagnosis of HS?
HS lesions often resemble boils, acne, or folliculitis, leading to misdiagnosis—particularly in early stages.
Which clinical pattern may suggest progressive HS requiring reassessment of management?
Increasing lesion frequency, tunnel formation, and scarring may indicate worsening disease and the need to reassess management.
Which question may help identify persistent symptom burden in HS during follow-up?
Correct Answer: D
Assessing recurrence, symptom frequency, and impact on daily life helps identify ongoing disease activity and supports reassessment of management.