What is hidradenitis suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (say "hih-drad-uh-NY-tus sup-yur-uh-TY-vuh") is a skin condition that causes lumps on the skin that look like pimples or boils. The lumps are usually painful and can break open and drain blood and bad-smelling pus. The condition can come and go for many years.

Treatment for this condition may include antibiotics and other medicines. You may need surgery to remove the lumps. Home care includes wearing loose-fitting clothes and washing the area gently. You can help prevent lumps from coming back by staying at a healthy weight and not smoking.

Doctors don't know exactly how this condition starts. But they do know that something irritates and inflames the hair follicles, causing them to swell and form lumps. This skin condition can't be spread from person to person (isn't contagious).

Common symptoms include the appearance of painful, red lumps that may look like pimples, acne, or boils. They usually occur in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the armpit, the buttocks, or the inner thighs. They can also become infected and break open, draining blood and pus.

Treatment for this condition depends on how serious it is. You may need to take pills, like antibiotics, or rub a prescription ointment or cream on the affected skin. Your doctor may give you corticosteroid injections (shots) into the affected areas or hormone pills to take. Or the infected tissue may be removed.

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and examine the area where the lumps are. Your doctor may want to know when the symptoms began and if you've had them before. If they're leaking fluid or pus, your doctor may test the fluid to see if you have an infection.

Using your hands, wash the affected skin every day with mild soap. If possible, leave the affected areas uncovered. If you have lumps that are draining, cover them with a bandage or other dressing. If you have pain, try placing a warm compress on the area for about 10 minutes.